Page:Austen - Sense and Sensibility, vol. III, 1811.djvu/106

 Ferrars is one of the most affectionate mothers in the world.”

Elinor was silent.

“We think now”—said Mr. Dashwood, after a short pause, “of Robert’s marrying Miss Morton.”

Elinor, smiling at the grave and decisive importance of her brother’s tone, calmly replied,

“The lady, I suppose, has no choice in the affair.”

“Choice!—how do you mean?”—

“I only mean, that I suppose from your manner of speaking, it must be the same to Miss Morton whether she marry Edward or Robert.”

“Certainly, there can be no difference; for Robert will now to all intents and purposes be considered as the eldest son;—and as to any thing else, they are both very agreeable young men, I do not know that one is superior to the other.” Elinor