I agree Mrs. Dashwood does deserve some kudos for finally realizing that she has two daughters abandoned by their lovers. I have ragged on Mrs. D throughout the group read for lack of parental supervision of Marianne--leaving the unpleasant aspects to Elinor. So I will take this opportunity and join you in praising Mrs. D for finally opening her eyes and perhaps Elinor can go back to being a big sister again rather than a surrogate mother. ;D