Most of my laughter in this first week's chapters comes at the expense of Sir Walter. I sure wouldn't want him for a father (unless I were Elizabeth, and then I'd have to kill myself) but he is a hoot to read.

"He considered the blessing of beauty as inferior only to the blessing of a baronetcy; and the Sir Walter Elliot, who united these gifts, was the constant object of his warmest respect and devotion." (ch 1)

"…the rapid increase of crow's foot about Lady Russell's temples had long been a distress to him." (ch 1)

"Mr. Shepherd felt that he [Sir Walter] could not be trusted in London." (ch 2)

"…it was only on the supposition of his being spontaneously solicited by some most unexceptionable applicant, on his own terms, and as a great favor, that he would let it at all." (ch 2) I love that phrase "spontaneously solicited" - can't you see hordes of men dashing up to Sir Walter, begging him to be allowed to let Kellynch Hall - LOL!

"applications will unquestionably follow … and beg leave to add, that two hours will bring me over at any time, to save you the trouble of replying." (ch 3) Yes, Mr Shepherd will come right over and answer that letter for you so you don't screw it up!