Part 11: A Serious Thought

As Henry would return to the pulpit soon, he set himself to a morning's study. He was successful for about an hour; however, the biblical imagery recalled a charming passage by Blake leading—as many of his thoughts travelled of late—to a certain person sure to enjoy it too.

She faced some metaphorical wolves among the dissembling Thorpes. Engagement or no, how could Mr. Morland expose his sister to such a man? At least he was no longer present to disturb their company....

Dismissing those unprofitable musings, he took up his pen again.

But even put to work, his mind also turned over Frederick's behaviour, which thus far had only drawn bewilderment from their friend. Would that last? And what would they say if questioned? Henry hoped Eleanor would not have to answer for her brother's imprudence.

Well, he simply must distract Miss Morland from the situation. Now there was a temptation, and one he indulged considering for the better part of ten minutes before mastering himself. He should instead focus on his parish, and moreover dissuade his father from making so many pointed insinuations.

That is, he simply did not wish her disappointed. She was such a sweet girl, cheerful and carefree, bright and sunny, loyal and considerate and kind and even in her own way thoughtful. If she was finished with her latest novel perhaps she might consider Emmeline next, he would dearly love to know what she thought of it; or perhaps her opinion on his sermon, surely at home she would be used to such discussions, why she was fitted for parsonage life already....

He read over his scribblings, filed them away, and decided to seek out Eleanor and Mrs. Hughes for a stroll.

Plenty of time to consider what to say to Miss Morland that evening.

Title from Chapter 30 from Northanger Abbey: "... his affection originated in nothing better than gratitude, or, in other words, that a persuasion of her partiality for him had been the only cause of giving her a serious thought."