Emma
Mrs. Cole
The hospitable neighbor
A pleasant, newly wealthy Highbury hostess who loves to give gatherings. Her musical dinner is where the pianoforte is discussed.
Mrs. Cole is a gracious, hospitable woman whose family has newly grown wealthy. She is pleasant and eager to host, and her dinner parties are a highlight of Highbury society.
She is part of the changing village, where new money joins old families at the same table. Emma is at first reluctant to dine with the Coles, but the evening is a happy one. Mrs. Cole's guests include Hartfield, the Westons, Mr. Knightley and Frank Churchill, so the dinner brings the whole circle together.
In the story
Contains spoilers.
Mrs. Cole hosts the musical dinner party at which Highbury society gathers, and Hartfield is honored with an invitation. It is where the pianoforte sent to Jane Fairfax is discussed.
At her party, Jane sings and plays, Frank joins her in song, and Emma notes Mr. Knightley watching Jane with admiration, which she misunderstands. Emma later plays too, and dances with Frank.
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