At the end of chapter 8, Mr. Perry meets Mr. Elton on the road to London (to frame Emma's picture) and Mr. Elton says to Mr. Perry in a

very particular way indeed, that he was going on business which he would not put off for any inducement in the world; and something about a very enviable commission, and being the bearer of something exceedingly precious. Mr. Perry could not quite understand him, but he was very sure there must be a lady in the case, and he told him so; and Mr. Elton only looked very conscious and smiling, and rode off in great spirits