I think the points you both make concerning Fanny and what JA is trying to get across concerning women, explains things very well. I can't help thinking it is such a shame he couldn't have been just the tiniest bit more generous in the amount he left them. Just think, even an extra thousand pounds each would have, all together, helped so much in added interest. Then again, JA's point would have been somewhat watered down, not as effective. Thanks to you both. The next time I read this my chagrin can be much lessened concerning the old gentelman. John, on the othr hand....