Mrs Dashwood and her two daughters, Elinor and Marianne, are faced with the prospect of Mrs Dashwood's stepson and his wife moving into their home at Norland.

Colonel Brandon organised a picnic for all at Barton but was called to London at the last moment and cancelled it. Undeterred, Willoughby took Marianne for a drive by herself.

Col. Brandon heard that Mrs Ferrars had cut Edward off because of his engagement. He asked Elinor to take a message to Edward, little knowing the effect this might have on her.