Sense and Sensibility Notes | Chapter 4

Marianne feels sorry for Elinor, because Edward has no taste for drawing. Elinor defends Edward against what she sees as a silly criticism, though to Marianne such matters are very important. She praises Edward both for his intellect and for his imagination. But Elinor will not confirm Marianne's expectation that Edward will soon be a member of their family. When she speaks of her affection for Edward, in a quiet manner, Marianne becomes offended. Elinor believes Edward has feelings for her, but because of their different incomes, she chooses to be cautious.

Topic Tracking: Hypocrites 2
Topic Tracking: Romance 3

When Fanny begins to guess about Elinor and Edward, she makes it a point to mention to Elinor's mother how wealthy Edward will be, and how important it is for him to marry well. Elinor's small fortune makes her an unsuitable match for Edward, and Fanny wants to make sure Elinor doesn't think that her family position will excuse her poverty.

Topic Tracking: Money 3

Mrs. Dashwood receives a letter from a distant relation living at Barton Park, who offers her Barton Cottage as a residence. The property is in Devonshire, but Sir John Middleton's letter was so friendly and the situation at Norland so tense, that the Dashwood women decide to move to Barton. Though it meant leaving Edward, for whom she cares, Elinor cannot object to their removing themselves from Fanny and John, and to a house suited to their income.