"we can be confident that Lucy does not care for Robert apart from his income." Well said. But Robert does not care for Robert apart from his income. If he had no money, he would despise himself. He has no self-awareness, no sense of self. His toothpicks have more a sense of self, and they are insensible.

If we were to ask Lucy and Robert if they are happy, they would look at us blankly. At the emotions and agonies of Marianne, they look blankly. All her groans, sighs and tears -- and it isn't over money? Elinor and Marianne and Brandon are basilisks to them -- utterly incomprehensible.