Chapters 25, 26, 27, and 28 Summary

Like he did with Mr. Rushworth, Mr. Crawford begins making suggestions for ways that Edmund can turn his house into a gentleman's residence. Mary Crawford listens intently to this conversation. The comparison to Sotherton comes up, and Fanny remembers how Mr. Crawford behaved with Maria that day. Mr. Crawford says to Fanny in a low voice that he hopes she does not judge him based on his actions that day, and he explains that he has changed a great deal since that time.

As the evening progresses, most of the characters gravitate toward the fire, but Fanny and William remain off by themselves, playing cards and talking quietly. Mr. Crawford wants to get Fanny's attention again. They talk about a ball, and Fanny says she likes dancing but tires easily. William remembers a time they all danced when they were little...