Sir John told the Steeles everything about the Dashwoods' lives. One day, Anne Steele congrdtulated Elinor on Marianne's engagement to a very fine young man. Then the Steeles told Elinor that Sir John talked about her suspected attachment to Edward.
"His name is Ferrars," whispered Sir John. "But it's a a big secret!"
"Mr. Ferrars!" repeated Anne Steele. "Your sister-in-law's brother? He's very pleasant young man. We know him well."
"How can you say that,Anne?" cried Lucy, who always corrected everything her sister said. "We've only seen him once or twice at my uncle's house."
Elinor was shocked. She wanted to know who their uncle was and how they knew Edward. But she didn't ask questions.
During the next faw days. Lusy took every chance to make conversation with Elinor. She was a clever and humorous companion, but Elinor pitied her for lacking education. She disliked the insincerity, dishonesty, and self-interest that lay behind her words and actions.
While Elinor and Lucy were walking alone, Lucy asked, "You may thing this question strange, but do you know your sister-in-law's mother, Mrs.Ferrars?