Chapter 20 Summary

In this chapter, Elinor and Marianne visit with the Palmers, Middletons, and Mrs. Jennings at Barton Park. Mrs. Palmer talks a great deal about her husband's political aspirations, and invites the girls to come and stay at her country home, Cleveland. Mr. Palmer turns out to be a grumpy man, which contrasts starkly with his wife's assertion that he is "droll" and spends most of his time trying "to make every body like him." Mrs. Palmer also mentions the fact that she and her husband know quite a bit about Willoughby, and that Colonel Brandon has recently told her that Marianne and Willoughby were to be married. The girls question her about this information and learn that Willoughby lives near Cleveland and is well regarded by families and in particular young women in the area.

Chapter 20 Analysis

This chapter introduces some background information...