Tonight, we shall read the next part to “Persuasion”, the last novel fully completed by Jane Austen, and published in 1817. The story concerns Anne Elliot, an Englishwoman whose family moves in order to lower their expenses, by renting their home to an Admiral and his wife. 

Anne receives a letter from her sister Elizabeth informing her that Mr. Elliot, their estranged cousin and heir to Kellynch Hall, is in Bath and has been paying regular visits to their father, Sir Walter. His sudden attentiveness is surprising, as he had previously distanced himself from the family. Lady Russell, initially uninterested in Mr. Elliot, is now curious and eager to meet him. Anne, less excited, acknowledges she would rather see him than many others in Bath.

Upon arriving at Camden Place, Anne finds her father and Elizabeth in high spirits, boasting about their grand house and increasing social prominence. They are delighted with Mr. Elliot, who has explained away his past neglect and is now eager to reconcile. 

That evening, Mr. Elliot arrives unexpectedly. His charm and intelligence impress Anne, and the evening passes surprisingly well.