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.

In the last episode, Anne unexpectedly encounters Admiral Croft while walking alone in Bath. She finds him cheerfully absorbed in critiquing a print of a ridiculous-looking boat in a shop window. They walk together, the Admiral talking freely and humorously about mutual acquaintances and life in Bath. Once they reach a quieter street, he shares surprising news: Louisa Musgrove is to marry Captain Benwick—not Captain Wentworth, as everyone had assumed. Anne is stunned but conceals her reaction. She expresses hopes that Captain Wentworth isn’t wounded by the match or by his friend’s involvement. The Admiral reassures her that Wentworth’s letter conveyed no bitterness and that he wishes the couple happiness. Still, Anne senses more complexity beneath the surface.

Shortly afterward, Anne, while waiting out a light rain in a shop with her relatives, unexpectedly sees Captain Wentworth walking down Milsom Street. The shock is overwhelming. She tries to compose herself, only to see him enter the same shop moments later. Their meeting is awkward and emotionally charged. He seems flustered and speaks to her with visible discomfort—very unlike his previously composed manner. They exchange brief, formal conversation, but Anne is left deeply affected by his presence and the unresolved feelings between them.

— read by 'V' —

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