she did not use a carriage to come to Donwell. It is true that the Donwell party had been inspired by the fact that horses would not be needed, and Mrs Elton's idea of riding donkeys does create the impression that she must have something grander to ride than shanks' pony.

It is Mrs Weston's decision to entertain Mr Woodhouse the next day, rather than go to Box Hill, and that of her husband to ride rather than drive, that makes me suspect it was one of the Weston's horses that was lamed, and that it is still lame (from damage done after the ball at the crown, which is the last time we positively know the carriage horses were harnessed and working).

Mr Weston organized the party to Box Hill, so it is a bit odd that his wife and his carriage are not coming along with them. I would have thought it more natural that Mr Woodhouse's carriage be used only to bring Mrs Bates to Hartfield, so that neither of them were alone while their respective households were driving out to Box Hill with the Westons and the Eltons.