So much focus on discussing 'visiting' during this group read has made me aware of how much 'the etiquette of visiting' is weaved throughout the plot. Visits and one's duty in regards to them are highlighted in this novel in a way that you don't see in JA's other work---indeed they are an integral part of what is going on. Visits or the lack of them, as the case may be, has prompted arguments as well as caused hurt and/or offense.

The next visit causes Emma's dilemma and begins this way:

1. Harriet is distressed by a sudden meeting with Mr. Martin, the first since her refusal of him.
2. Mr. Elton's engagement supplants the first distress for this new one.
3. Elizabeth's visit to see Harriet at Mrs. Goddard's when Harriet is not home, eases the Elton engagement distress as Harriet now worries what she should do in return, wanting to do more than she confesses.
4. However, the Martins are forgotten for awhile when Mr. Elton shows up in person. When Mr. Elton leaves again, Emma decides to offset furthur distress by having Harriet return Elizabeth Martin's call.

The problem is that Emma must tread a fine line. She feels that the visit will do Harriet good and, as good manners requires the visit to be reciprocated, why not? On the other hand, Emma is fearful of Harriet reestablishing her acquaintance with the Martins, thereby undoing everything she has done to sever the relationship. Finally, unable to come up with anything better, the visit is settled upon. To get the message across to the Martins that this is only to be a formal acquaintance, Emma will take Harriet herself and the visit will last only fifteen minutes. According to the sources I consulted, fifteen minutes was the minimum amount of time a visit could last without giving offense.