November 9, 2004

Last line

Between Barton and Delaford, there was that constant communication which strong family affection would naturally dictate; -- and among the merits and the happiness of Elinor and Marianne, let it not be ranked as the least considerable, that the sisters, and living almost within sight of each other, they could live without disagreement between themselves, or producing coolness between their husbands.

Posted by sheila
Comments

Sense and Sensibility

Posted by: Steve Wilson at November 9, 2004 4:53 PM

Yes. I think that is one of the funniest last lines she ever wrote.

Like ... it's supposed to be a "happy ending" - but ... it gives a very different vibe. All the negatives, "let it not", etc.

A Jane Austen version of happy marriage.

Posted by: red at November 9, 2004 4:58 PM

To your observation as to so many of Jane Austen's insights--"just so."

Posted by: Steve Wilson at November 9, 2004 5:34 PM