] Oh, I like this idea, and believe I can even think of additional evidence to bolster your argument. ;-)

Why, thank you! That is always pleasant :)

] I'm sure the Tilneys see right through the Thorpes, and can tell that they are shallow, selfish people. I think it a good thing that Henry met Catherine before she met the Thorpes, so Henry had a glimpse into her nature before she met the Thorpes.

Good point; I had not thought of this.

] When she drove past Henry and Eleanor in company with John Thorpe when she had promised to walk with them, I am sure Henry at least wondered if Catherine knowingly stood them up, was now so under the influence of the Thorpes that she behaved as they did.

"so under the influence of..." Yes; I wrote my post hastily and missed this evidence, too! I'm sure he did wonder.

] He was certainly cold to her at the theatre before she apologized.

I am glad he was, though I was sad for Catherine; from his point of view, she was terribly rude, and it is to his credit that he is so sensitive to bad behavior.

] (and so sweetly - wasn't she adorable there? "I would ten times had rather been with you!")

"Is there a [reader] in the world" that did not think she was adorable?" I love that part!

] Perhaps he and Eleanor did think they could be a good influence, or at least a different one for her than the Thorpes.

They are almost perfect role models for any young men and women; what wonderful neighbors they would make! And how I should like to have Eleanor and (the reformed, i.e. judgment-improved) Catherine for friends! (And an Eleanor that came with a Henry? Well, I certainly wouldn't complain!)

] Interesting idea, Christen. Thanks for giving me something new to think about. ;-)

No problem, I assure you