] ...It seems to me that it was very wrong of both of them to talk about anyone like that. I was under the impression that Willoughby disliked Colonel Brandon even before this, although I know not for what reason; but I felt that Marianne thought well of the Colonel, at least she has no reason to dislike him.

It is further evidence of the effect Willoughby has on her. She felt nothing but compassion for the Colonel's "advanced age" and his "forlorn condition as a bachelor"; but no malice. Her more biting remarks were made after she met Willoughby. I think this is one of Jane's early hints that Willoughby is not all he seems.