Sense and Sensibility / Чувство и чувствительность. Уровень 3

“Brandon is just the kind of man,” said Willoughby one day, when they were talking of him together, “whom everybody speaks well of, and nobody cares about.”

“That is exactly what I think of him,” cried Marianne.

“However,” said Elinor, “it is injustice. He is highly esteemed by all the family at the park, and I like to converse with him.”

“That he is patronised by you,” replied Willoughby, “is certainly in his favour; but as for the esteem of the others, it is a reproach.

In defence of your protégé you can even be saucy.”

“My protégé, as you call him, is a sensible man; and sense will always have attractions for me. Yes, Marianne, even in a man between thirty and forty. He has seen much; has been abroad, has read, and has a thinking mind. He is capable of giving me much information on various subjects; and he has always answered my inquiries with readiness of good nature.”

“That is to say,” cried Marianne contemptuously, “he has told you, that in the East Indies the climate is hot, and the mosquitoes are troublesome.

”

“Perhaps,” said Willoughby, “his observations may extend to the existence of nabobs and palanquins.”

“Why do you dislike him?” asked Elinor.

“I do not dislike him. I consider him, on the contrary, as a very respectable man, who has more money than he can spend, more time than he knows how to employ, and two new coats every year.”

“And,” cried Marianne, “he has neither genius, taste, nor spirit.

His understanding has no brilliancy, his feelings no ardour, and his voice no expression.”

“I can only say,” replied Elinor, “that he is a sensible man, well-bred, well-informed, and, I believe, possessing an amiable heart.”

“Miss Dashwood,” cried Willoughby, “I have three reasons for disliking Colonel Brandon. He threatened me with rain when I wanted it to be fine. He has found fault with my curricle. And I cannot persuade him to buy my brown mare.

However, his character in other respects is irreproachable, I am ready to confess it.”

Chapter XI

When Marianne was recovered, the private balls at the park began. The parties on the water were made and accomplished as often as a showery October allowed. In every meeting Willoughby was included.

Elinor was not surprised at their attachment. She only wished it was less openly shown. Marianne abhorred all concealment.