My question was kind of far-fetched, IMO, but I'm glad I asked it. The "Oxford University Press's AskOxford.com" requires a password, so I couldn't get in, but the "World Wide Words" answer was very interesting, and enlightening. I can't imagine how I would have found such a site on my own; thanks again.

This is yet another example of how much I'm enjoying my own personal discovery of JA's writing ability. Even 200 years on, with a LIVING language, as English is, her work is still easily understandable, with only occasional minor instances that cause questions. She is an unending source of amazement, and amusement!