It was mentioned yesterday that some saw echoes of Marianne Dashwood in L&V, with its emphasis on sensibility. When I read it this time, I had the idea that Laura in L&V might be a prototype for Isabella of NA. I especially felt this in the introductions to their particular friends, Sophia and Catherine, respectively.

L&F: We flew into each other's arms and after having exchanged vows of mutual Freindship for the rest of our Lives, instantly unfolded to each other the most inward secrets of our Hearts. (Letter 8)

NA: Their conversation turned upon those subjects, of which the free discussion has generally much to do in perfecting a sudden intimacy between two young ladies … Their increasing attachment was not to be satisfied with half a dozen turns in the pump–room … The progress of the friendship between Catherine and Isabella was quick as its beginning had been warm, and they passed so rapidly through every gradation of increasing tenderness that there was shortly no fresh proof of it to be given to their friends or themselves. (Ch. 4, 5)