Maria's notions on the subject were more confused and indistinct. She
did not want to see or understand. "There could be no harm in her
liking an agreeable man--everybody knew her situation--Mr. Crawford
must take care of himself." Mr. Crawford did not mean to be in any
danger! the Miss Bertrams were worth pleasing, and were ready to be
pleased; and he began with no object but of making them like him. He
did not want them to die of love; but with sense and temper which ought
to have made him judge and feel better, he allowed himself great
latitude on such points.

"I like your Miss Bertrams exceedingly, sister," said he, as he
returned from attending them to their carriage after the said dinner
visit; "they are very elegant, agreeable girls."

"So they are indeed, and I am delighted to hear you say it. But you
like Julia best."

"Oh yes! I like Julia best."

"But do you really? for Miss Bertram is in general thought the
handsomest."

"So I should suppose. She has the advantage in every feature, and I
prefer her countenance; but I like Julia best; Miss Bertram is
certainly the handsomest, and I have found her the most agreeable, but
I shall always like Julia best, because you order me."

"I shall not talk to you, Henry, but I know you will like her best at
last."