It is several aeons since I first read 'Persuasion', but I distinctly recall that Chapter 12 at Lyme suggested to me that interesting new possibilities for Ann were opening up.

Mr Elliott turns up - a gentleman with an agreeable appearance and air of good sense. Anne is glad when he turns out to be the heir to Kellynch. He is still wearing mourning for his late wife, but twice Anne is made aware that he admires her exceedingly and thinks her very lovely.....

Captain Benwick is another new acquaintance. He is at ease with her, and seeks her company. They have a shared interest in poetry. Though still mourning his lost love (as is Anne), she senses that he will rally and be happy with someone else.....

Hitherto the plot has been all about Captain Wentworth - who increasingly looks like a hopeless case as far as Anne is concerned, especially in view of his relationship with Louisa and his emotional reactions after her accident. Now we have two new gentlemen - both single! Suddenly the plot could develop in a variety of different ways. Things are getting interesting! Which way will Austen take this story....?