about Emmaīs benevolence. But your words just sounded a bit too negative in my ears. I agree that there could be done more for the Bates on Emmaīs behalf. But I also feel with her as I have a neighbour I donīt like very much, too. And yet I know I have to be friendly to her and even benevolent at times - which I hopefully manage quite well - although my feelings towards her canīt be changed overnight. So my opinion is that in certain circumstances it is better to show a friendly behaviour half-heartedly than no friendliness at all.
Perhaps my feelings towards Emma in this point are too personal and I should be a bit more objective. Sorry for this!