Because this is my first time reading S&S, although I've watched all of the available adaptations a few times, I would never have thought of looking at this from your point of view! My vision is colored by the adaptations, as you said. But you may be right; you've made a good case here. I thought his "maudlin musings" were a little over-the-top. I shall have to watch to see if there is any other evidence of Willoughby's advance planning to dump Marianne. Thank you, Melissa, and also Barbara, who has also added to my doubts.