As this chapter well indicates, George is becoming more important in the plot. After his conversation with Augusta, it should be clear to the reader (if it has not already been) that he too is interested in marriage. He has earlier stated that he values good sense, strength, and openness in a wife: He now makes plain the kind of honor and consideration he will give her. At the same time he rather quietly but surely demonstrates his ability to deal with a wife who is overbearing and silly. When Augusta wishes she had a donkey to ride dust-free to the party, he says that Donwell Lane is never dusty but adds, "Come on a donkey, however, if you prefer it . . . I would wish every thing to be as much to your taste as possible."
A notable contrast is seen between Emma and Augusta during the party at Donwell. Augusta is still the officious and obnoxious manager, forcing her "help" upon poor Jane. On the other hand, almost as if Donwell has a sobering and symbolic effect on her, Emma not once tries any of her usual scheming. Once, when Frank is mentioned, she looks at Harriet only to observe that she behaves very well and betrays no emotion; and that is as close as she comes to willfulness, except for one later mere observation. Otherwise she seems to be quite at peace with herself and ready to offer understanding and pity to Jane. Obviously, if she wished, for Harriet's sake she could urge Frank to accompany them to Box Hill, but she does not do so. The decision to go is strictly Frank's.
The mystery of Jane and Frank is developed only briefly, just a bit to cloud the issue. Jane leaves the party early, but we do not know what has wearied her spirits. When Frank finally arrives, he looks "very deplorable." But being delayed by Mrs. Churchill's illness has never appeared to bother him before, and his being out of humor with the weather is hardly rational. In each case we know only that the man is upset about something.
