Persuasion

Anne spends the next two days with Mr. And Mrs. Musgrove waiting for news about Louisa’s condition. Charles brings the news that “everything was going on as well as the nature of the case admitted” (113) and appears hopeful. As Anne is about to leave and join Lady Russell at Kellynch-lodge, she persuades the Musgroves to all go to Lyme together and show support for Louisa. Lady Russell picks up Anne in her carriage and the pair goes to Kellynch-lodge for the holidays. Lady Russell notes that “either Anne was improved in plumpness and looks, or Lady Russell fancied her so” (115). Both women are anxious about seeing Captain Wentworth, but Lady Russell does not explicitly ask after him, as Anne seems unbothered by his proximity.

As they talk, Anne notes her increased interest in the affairs of Uppercross. She is barely able to attend to Lady Russell’s conversation about Kellynch and Anne’s family. After a few days, an anonymous note arrives for Anne that describes Louisa’s improving condition. Anne and Lady Russell decide to visit Kellynch Hall and pay their respects to the Crofts. In regards to her old home, Anne “could not but in conscience feel […] that Kellynch-hall had passed into better hands than its owners” (117).