Emma

A matchmaker’s love story.

6 women, 6 men

FRANK CHURCHILL

Well, I have so little confidence in my own judgment, that whenever I marry, I hope somebody will choose my wife for me. Will you? (to EMMA) Will you choose a wife for me? I am sure I should like anybody fixed on by you. I am in no hurry.

EMMA

Indeed! (laughing at the joke) FRANK CHURCHILL By all means, if you can. EMMA (laughing) Very well. I undertake the commission. You shall have a charming wife. FRANK CHURCHILL I shall go abroad for a couple of years -- and when I return, I shall come to you for my wife. Remember. He exits. Followed by MR. WESTON and HARRIET. MR. KNIGHTLEY and EMMA remain.

MR. KNIGHTLEY

Emma, how could you be so unfeeling to Miss Bates? -- A woman of her character, age, and situation? Emma, I had not thought it possible.

EMMA

Nay, how could I help saying what I did? Nobody could have helped it. It was not so very bad. I dare say she did not understand me.

MR. KNIGHTLEY

I assure you she did. She felt your full meaning. I wish you could have heard how she talked of it -- I wish you could have heard her honoring your forbearance, in being able to pay her such attentions, when her society must be so irksome.

EMMA

Oh! I know there is not a better creature in the world: but you must allow, that she is ridiculous!

MR. KNIGHTLEY

Ridiculous, I acknowledge; and were she a woman of fortune, were she your equal --I would not quarrel with you for any liberties of manner. But, Emma, consider-- she is poor; and she should secure your compassion. It was badly done! You, whom she has seen grow up -- to have you now, in thoughtless spirits, and the pride of the moment, laugh at her, humble her -- and before her niece, too -- and before others whom are guided by your treatment of her. I must, I will, -- I will tell you truths-– as your friend. It was badly done, indeed! (He exits. EMMA remains.)