] I love his imitation of a jaded Bath Veteran. He goes into this whole parody within the parody thing that is very funny.

I also like how JA can poke fun at the meaningless social chatter of the time through Henry. She takes what should be just a typical "getting to know you" chat and turns it into something special.

] The muslin scene with Mrs. Allen also gives Henry a chance to exhibit.

I just love Mrs. Allen. She's so clueless! :)

]I vacillate between thinking that he is being polite and good company, engaging in conversation with Mrs. Allen on a subject which he knows is near and dear to her heart (something easily discerned upon introduction) or if he is making fun of her, having a laugh at her expense. I tend to think it is a bit of both.

I think it is both. I don't think, if left to himself, he would choose to talk about muslin, but I don't think he is the kind of person who would seek to get in good with Catherine's chaperone. I think he is a genuinely nice person who wants to amuse both Catherine and Mrs. Allen. But I also think his sense of humor is so irrepressible that he can't help indulging in a little laugh. It's done in the kindest possible way of course...

] Whatever it is, Henry certainly makes an impression upon Catherine and us. ;-)

I love Henry. I think it is his sense of humor that makes such a good impression. Whether he is "nearly" handsome or drop dead gorgeous matters little because he makes us laugh. Looks fade, but a good sense of humor lasts forever! :)