Emma felt distressed; she did not like the proposal – she did not wish to be on terms of intimacy with the proposer – and yet fearful of encroaching on the Edwards’, as well as wishing to go home herself, she was at a loss how entirely to decline what he offered – Mrs Edwards continued silent, either not understanding the case, or waiting to see how the young lady’s inclination lay. Emma thanked him – but professed herself very unwilling to give him so much trouble. ‘The trouble was, of course, honour, pleasure, delight What had he or his horses to do?’ – Still she hesitated. ‘She believed she must beg leave to decline his assistance – she was rather afraid of the sort of carriage –. The distance was not beyond a walk. – ’ Mrs Edwards was silent no longer. She enquired into the particulars – and then said‘We shall be extremely happy Miss Emma, if you can give us the pleasure of your company until tomorrow – but if you can not conveniently do so, our carriage is quite at your service, and Mary will be pleased with the opportunity of seeing your sister.’This was precisely what Emma had longed for; and she accepted the offer most thankfully; acknowledging that as Elizabeth was entirely alone, it was her wish to return home to dinner. – The plan was warmly opposed by their visitor.‘I cannot suffer it indeed. I must not be deprived of the happiness of escorting you. I assure you there is not a possibility of fear with my horses. You might guide them yourself. Your sisters all know how quiet they are; they have none of them the smallest scruple in trusting themselves with me, even on a race course. – Believe me – ’ he added lowering his voice ‘You are quite safe, the danger is only mine.’Emma was not more disposed to oblige him for all this.‘And as to Mrs Edwards’ carriage being used the day after a ball, it is a thing quite out of rule, I assure you – never heard of before – the old coachman will look as black as his horses –. Won’t he, Miss Edwards?’No notice was taken. The ladies were silently firm, and the gentleman found himself obliged to submit.