Volume 2 Chapter 16 Summary

As Mrs. Elton settles into society at Highbury, she throws a great deal of dinner parties. Not wanting to seem rude, Emma decides to throw a dinner party at Hartfield and invites the Eltons to join them. Mr. And Mrs. Weston are invited, as is Mr. Knightley. However, an eighth guest must be found, so Harriet is invited.

However, much to Emma's relief she refuses to come, so Emma invites Miss Fairfax instead. Emma feels quite guilty that Mr. Knightley thinks she has been avoiding Miss Fairfax and this gives her a great opportunity to change his opinion.

Her father is quite happy with eight guests, and a letter arrives stating that Mr. John Knightley will be arriving with two of his sons the day of the party. Since they cannot keep him from coming, the number of guests is enlarged...