"However, in the book it's obvious that both Anne and Mrs. Clay really *prefer* walking home to going in Lady Dalrymple's carriage, and oddly enough, Mrs. Clay seems to want to walk because it means being able to have Mr. Elliot's company. "

Yes, it is a little contest between them isn't it. Odd isn't it, that Mrs. Clay wants to walk with Mr. Elliott? And in the book it's a contest Anne wins. Her shoes are judged thickest and Anne wins the arm of Mr. Elliott.

This whole scene has a totally different effect on me in the movie versus the book. I feel quite glad for Anne that for once FW has to sweat it out on the sidelines and wonder about Anne. Not that I wouldn't prefer her to be accompanied home by CW, but it is nice to see the effect this turnabout has on Anne's spirit. It is what gives her the boldness to act later on in the book.