Sense and Sensibility Chapter 43

Marianne appears better the next morning, but she is not. Elinor sends her back to bed, but is not worried--she is sure sleep is all her sister needs. The doctor comes to examine Marianne, who he believes to have some kind of infection. Charlotte leaves immediately with the child, and her husband followed soon after. Only Mrs. Jennings, the Colonel, and Elinor stay behind with Marianne, and Elinor finds Mrs. Jennings most of all, very helpful. The Colonel thought of leaving, but Mrs. Jennings, who thought it would be terrible for him to leave his love while her sister was sick, encouraged him to stay. This was a good thing, because when Marianne grew worse, the Colonel offered to drive out and bring Marianne her mother.

Marianne is delirious, and Elinor is very concerned. Mrs. Jennings is very sympathetic, and a comfort to Elinor. The doctor tries more medicines, none of which seem to work. The following day, however, Elinor imagines an improvement in her sister's condition. As the hours pass, she is given proof of it, and Marianne seems out of danger. Elinor is thankful, satisfied in her quiet way. She is able to eat now, and joins Mrs. Jennings for tea. The night is stormy, and Elinor is determined to spend it at Marianne's bedside. The Colonel and her mother could arrive at any moment. Upon hearing a carriage, Elinor rushes downstairs, but it is not her mother she sees; rather, it is Willoughby!