It was not completely unknown for the Morlands to dine with the Allens, but an occasion all the same. James and Richard were away at Oxford, and the babies left at home, but the rest of the family filled Fullerton's chief residence with cheer.

This cozy setting was Catherine's idea of a large party; it was difficult to conceive of a space with thrice and more the number present. Even the occasional assembly she had attended was dwarfed by comparison.

Easier, as she and her sisters retired later that night, to anticipate enjoying a room of her own in Bath.

Title from Chapter 10 of Northanger Abbey: "The morning had answered all her hopes, and the evening of the following day was now the object of expectation, the future good."