Question
be so insolent in
your wit to a woman of her character, age, and situation?-Emma, I
had not thought it possible."
13 Emma recollected, blushed, was sorry, but tried to laugh it off,
14 "Nay, how
could I help saying what I did?-Nobody could have helped it. It was not
so very bad. I dare
say she did not understand me."
L5 I assure you she did. She felt your full meaning. She has talked of it since. wish you
could have heard how she talked of it-with what candour and generosity. I wish you
could have heard her honouring your forbearance, in being able to pay her such
attentions, as she was for ever receiving from yourself and your father, when her society
must be so irksome."
16 *Oh!" cried Emma. "I know there is not a better creature in the world: but you must
allow, that what is good and what is ridiculous are most unfortunately blended in her."
E They are blended," said he, "I acknowledge; and, were she prosperous, I could allow
much for the occasional prevalence of the ridiculous over the good. Were she a woman
of fortune, I would leave every harmless absurdity to take its chance, would not quarrel
with you for any liberties of manner. Were she your equal in situation-but, Emma,
consider how far this is from being the case. She is poor, she has sunk from the
comforts she was born to; and, if she live to old age, must probably sink more. Her
situation should secure your compassion. It was badly done, indeed!- You, whom she
had known from an infant, whom she had seen grow up from a period when her notice
was an honour, to have you now, in thoughtless spirits, and the pride of the moment,
laugh at her, humble her-and before her niece, too and before others, many of whom
(certainly some,) would be entirely guided by your treatment of her.- This is not
pleasant to you, Emma- and it is very far from pleasant to me; but I must, I will --l will
tell you truths while I can, satisfied with proving mysell your friend by very faithful
counsel, and trusting that you will some time or other do me greater justice than you can
do now."
Answer
Emma acknowledges her mistake in being so insolent and expresses regret, but tries to laugh it off. Mr. Knightley reprimands her, reminding her of the difference in their social situations and how her thoughtless behavior could have hurt and humiliated Miss Bates. He urges her to show compassion and reminds her that he is only trying to be a faithful friend.