Matchmaking, I mean, or at least speculating vigorously about possible matches and indulging their imaginations by taking the least little clue and magnifying it into a 'probability' or a 'certainty'.

I made a list:

Emma Harriet & Mr Elton.

Emma Harriet & Frank - but only when Emma has refused him. Harriet will be welcome to Emma's cast-offs - how kind!

The Westons Emma & Frank.

Mrs Weston Mr Knightley & Jane Fairfax.

Miss Bates Emma & Mr Elton.

Miss Nash Thinks any of the Miss Coxes would be glad to have Mr Martin.

Mr Cole Mr Knightley & Jane Fairfax.

Mr Knightley Was not in favour of a match between Harriet & Mr Martin, but was mightily put out when it failed to materialise. Was also clued up about Mr Elton's intention not to throw himself away.. (What do they talk about at parish meetings??)

There are probably others that I have overlooked or who's matchmaking tendencies have not been shown to us. What a busybody bunch the inhabitants of Highbury are.

Mr Woodhouse is innocent, being opposed to matrimony entirely. I also acquit Mr Elton of such charges. He is interested in nobody except himself, though if the appalling Augusta ever gets the matchmaking bit between her teeth no unwed inhabitant of Highbury will be safe from her 'assistance'! ;-D