I was just introduced at last to Mary Plumptre,
but should hardly know her again. She was
delighted with _me_, however, good enthusiastic
soul! And Lady B. found me handsomer than she
expected, so you see I am not so very bad as you
might think for.

Since I wrote last, my 2nd edit.[275] has stared
me in the face. Mary tells me that Eliza means to
buy it. I wish she may. It can hardly depend upon
any more Fyfield Estates. I cannot help hoping
that _many_ will feel themselves obliged to buy
it. I shall not mind imagining it a disagreeable
duty to them, so as they do it. Mary heard before
she left home that it was very much admired at
Cheltenham, and that it was given to Miss
Hamilton.[276] It is pleasant to have such a
respectable writer named. I cannot tire _you_, I
am sure, on this subject, or I would apologise.

What weather, and what news![277] We have enough
to do to admire them both. I hope you derive your
full share of enjoyment from each.

* * * * *

Lady Eliz. Hatton and Annamaria called here this
morning. Yes, they called; but I do not think I
can say anything more about them. They came, and
they sat, and they went.

* * * * *

_Sunday._--Excellent sweetness of you to send me
such a nice long letter; it made its appearance,
with one from my mother, soon after I and my
impatient feelings walked in. How glad I am that I
did what I did! I was only afraid that _you_
might think the offer superfluous, but you have
set my heart at ease. Tell Henry that I _will_
stay with him, let it be ever so disagreeable to
him.

* * * * *

You shall hear from me once more, some day or
other.

Yours very affectionately,
J. A.
Miss Austen, 10 Henrietta Street.

Even in the middle of this large family party, Jane was not likely to
forget the literary profession which she had now seriously adopted.
Indeed, it was just at this time that the second edition of _Sense and
Sensibility_,