Emma thought at first that Mr Elton

Emma thought at first that Mr Elton might have said something to Mr
Knightley but then he continued.
'Robert Martin asked my opinion of her, was she too young to marry? Was it
too soon to ask her? I advised him to ask. He's very much in love with her.'
'He has already asked,' said Emma,'and she has refused him.'
'What? She is a very foolish girl. Are you sure?'
' Of course, I saw her answer.'
Mr Knightley became angry with her.
'Saw it! You mean you wrote it! I think this was your idea, Emma.'
'It was not, but I believe that, although he is a very pleasant young man, he is
not Harriet's equal.'
'Harriet Smith has no family and no money.This was a good match for her.
Until she met you, she thought of nothing better for herself, but you have filled her
head with ideas of high society and of how beautiful she is. She was happy enough
with the Martins in the summer.'
Emma was unhappy because he was so angry with her, but she would not
agree that she had been wrong.
'Now she knows what gentlemen are, she sees him differently. Now she is
looking for something better.'
'Remember, Emma, sensible men do not want silly wives. Harriet may not
have another chance to marry,' he replied. He started to walk away from her.
'And if you were thinking of Mr Elton for Harriet, it will not work. He is a
good vicar and a good man but he will look for money and good family in a wife.'
Emma laughed. 'I am not trying to make a match for Harriet with Mr Elton,'
she said, hoping that Mr Knightley would stop being angry and stay.
'Believe me, Emma, Mr Elton will choose sensibly,' he said over his shoulder.
'Good morning to you.