After spending eight long years in autumn, it is wonderful to see spring blossoming for Anne again. She has not been able to completely stamp out that tiny seed of hope and is rewarded with the wonderful conversation in the Octagon Room where she decides that Wentworth " had a heart returning to her." And not only "returning," but "She could not contemplate the change as implying less. He must love her." (ch.20)

Wow. I don't know, if I had been as beaten down as Anne had been, if I'd been treated to such cold politeness from Wentworth as she had, that I could have made that leap with such confidence, based upon two conversations (I'm counting the Molland's chat, for he clearly spoke to her differently than he had at Uppercross). I'm delighted for her, but kind of surprised as well, at her perspicacity. What is your reaction?

But how wonderful is this?

" Prettier musings of high-wrought love and eternal constancy could never have passed along the streets of Bath than Anne was sporting with from Camden Place to Westgate Buildings. It was almost enough to spread purification and perfume all the way." (ch. 21)