H arriet answered Emma’s letter politely, but she did not wish to meet her. Isabella had invited Harriet to stay with her family in London for two weeks. Harriet accepted the in vitation and soon she travelled to London. Mr Knightley came to Hartfield every day and Emma was now very, very happy. Emma went to call on Jane Fairfax, who was still living with her aunt and grandmother. This time, Jane ran down the stairs and greeted Emma warmly. Jane looked very happy and beautiful. Emma was about to speak when she heard Mrs Elton’s voice in the little sitting-room. So Emma just smiled and held Jane’s hand for a moment. Then both young women walked upstairs. Miss Bates was not at home, so Mrs Elton was sitting and talking to old Mrs Bates. Mrs Elton was looking very cheerful and Emma soon knew why. Mrs Elton knew about Jane’s secret engagement and she thought that Emma did not know about it. ‘Well, Miss Woodhouse, do you not think that our dear friend, Jane, is looking much better?’ Mrs Elton said with a laugh. ‘Dr Perry must be a very fine doctor. But perhaps he has had help from a certain young man ... no, no. I promised that I would not say anything. We must all visit Box Hill again soon, Miss Woodhouse. Some of us were not feeling very happy that afternoon!’ Soon after this, Miss Bates returned to the house. ‘Oh, my dear Miss Woodhouse! I am delighted that you have come! Yes, our dear Jane is now — so much better. Dr Perry — such a charming young man.