It is so nice to see the first real glimpse of joy and happiness Anne has experienced in the book - nay, in years! Her reaction to Mary's news of Louisa and Benwick's engagement is delightful.

"Anne's heart beat in spite of herself, and brought the colour into her cheeks when she thought of Captain Wentworth unshackled and free. She had some feelings which she was ashamed to investigate. They were too much like joy, senseless joy!" (ch 18)