 prime object, it became, by the same rule of moral obligation, her evident
duty to marry Mr. Rushworth if she could. Mrs. Norris was most zealous in
promoting the match, by every suggestion and contrivance, likely to enhance its
desirableness to either party; and, among other means, by seeking an intimacy
with the gentleman's mother, who at present lived with him, and to whom she even
forced Lady Bertram to go through ten miles of indifferent road, to pay a
morning visit. It was not long before a good understanding took place between
this lady and herself. Mrs. Rushworth acknowledged herself very desirous that
her son should marry, and declared that of all the young ladies she had ever
seen, Miss Bertram seemed, by her amiable qualities and accomplishments, the
best adapted to make him happy. Mrs. Norris accepted the compliment, and admired
the nice discernment of character which could so well distinguish merit. Maria
was indeed the pride and delight of them all - perfectly faultless - an angel;
and of course, so surrounded by admirers, must be difficult in her choice; but
yet as far as Mrs. Norris could allow herself to decide on so short an
acquaintance, Mr. Rushworth appeared precisely the young man to deserve and
attach her.
    After dancing with each other at a proper number of balls, the young people
justified these opinions, and an engagement, with a due reference to the absent
Sir Thomas, was entered into, much to the satisfaction of their respective
families, and of the general lookers-on of the neighbourhood, who had, for many
weeks past, felt the expediency of Mr. Rushworth's marrying Miss Bertram.
    It was some months before Sir Thomas's consent could be received; but in the
mean while, as no one felt a doubt of his most cordial pleasure in the
connection, the intercourse of the two families was carried on without
restraint, and no other attempt made at secrecy, than Mrs. Norris's talking of
it every where as a matter not to be talked of at present.
    Edmund was the only one of the family who could see a fault in the business;
but no representation of his aunt's could induce him to find Mr. Rushworth a
desirable companion. He could allow his sister to be the best judge of her own
happiness, but he was not pleased that her happiness should centre in a large
income; nor could he refrain from often saying to himself, in Mr. Rushworth's
company, »If this man had not twelve thousand a year, he would
