"I also agree on Robbin's point if Willoughby thought Mr Palmer was at Cleveland he wouldn't have come. Imagine his quick retreat if he'd run into Col. Brandon."

*snicker* Can't you just picture that! Indeed, the first time I ever read the novel my heart was pounding as I remembered that Brandon was on his way to bring Marianne's mother. I thought there would be some terrifying confrontation! However, Willoughby makes his escape before Brandon arrives. (Darn.)

This scene is another reason why I think Willoughby must've really come off badly in the duel. The way he badmouths everyone who doesn't please him in general, and Brandon in particular, I think that now if ever would be the time when he'd let off some comment about "That madman tried to kill me!" or some such. Imagine any topic on which Willoughby is more silent than Brandon! Just a thought.