Frank returns from London and evidences no discomposure about the purpose of the trip; but Emma is ready not only to overlook that but also to wonder how soon, in light of his possible feeling for her, she should "throw coldness into her air" toward him.
When she reaches the Coles' for the party, she praises George Knightley — who for once has brought out his carriage — for being a proper gentleman for the occasion; he only laughs good-humoredly. As those who are to come early for dinner arrive, Frank seats himself agreeably beside her. During the meal Mrs. Cole reports the news that a new, large pianoforte arrived that day for Jane, who has been puzzled about it, though of course it must be from Colonel Campbell. Emma thinks that Mr. Dixon has sent it surreptitiously, and Frank agrees in such a polite way with her words that he seems to be agreeing about Mr. Dixon, who had preferred Jane's playing to Miss Campbell's. Ambiguously he concludes his remarks about the instrument by saying, "And now I can see it in no other light than as an offering of love."
The ladies are in the drawing room after dinner when the other ladies — including Miss Bates and
