] What I have a hard time getting around is why Elinor did not talk to Marianne about it, ask her if Willoughby had proposed? I can't imagine Marianne would receive a marriage proposal and not shout it to the rooftops - that's what a person of high sensibility would do, is it not? ;-)

] The fact that she has not, leads to the confusion, for her actions with him are of such an intimate nature, actions one would not engage in if one were not engaged. But, why not just ask her? They are sisters, confidants...

I was wondering this exact same thing last night while reading for next week (actually getting a bit annoyed that Elinor woudn't just ask) and, lo and behold, Elinor answered that question in a conversation with her mom. "Read On..." :-)