Jane Austen Variation (Persuasion): Anne Elliot first glimpses Wentworth

Most conversation was drowned out by decidedly merry music. Young couples floated across the dance floor in unison while chaperones looked on, documenting every step of progress with their respective partners. Ones coming out was a game of chess but not everyone knew how to play. Miss Anne Elliot, a young debutante of nineteen, was a newcomer struggling to remember the rules. The girl was well-off but unaccustomed to life in London. She turned hesitantly to Lady Russell.

''I do not feel completely at ease at these social events. Surely, the others and I have nothing in common. Behold how they flock to them,'' she whispered and her eyes rested on a pretty figure.

A girl nearby laughed coquettishly. She stood in the centre of the room surrounded by a number of suitors, readily available to agree with her every statement and ensure her every comfort. The dandies gazed at the object of their affection almost sheepishly.

Lady Russell, adviser and chaperone, fanned Anne's face delicately and gave her an encouraging smile. ''Nonsense, Anne. You possess many qualities many of these women are without. I think it a great thing that you do not attract these scoundrels. Nothing will come of obtaining their favour, believe me. Marriage is not on their mind.''

''If you say so, Lady Russell. I only wish I had some occupation - someone to talk to or dance with.''

Though fond of dancing, Anne much preferred to play the piano, at which she excelled. But no such pleasure could be gained at a ball where music was the one thing not wanting. The social dance that unfolded before her did little to pacify her discomfort. The fact that she had no acquaintance in Town as yet played a large part in her unhappiness.

A flock of soldiers and sailors entered the room and momentarily, all eyes darted to the entrance to calculate their worth. Upon the discovery that they were simple men from the Navy, all fortune hunters lost interest. Anne was not so superficial as to base her opinion on a person's income. What Anne sought in a partner consisted of mainly good sense, a cultivated mind and pleasant manners.

As such, Miss Elliot paid particular attention to the Navy, her mind bubbling with questions relating to their dangerous profession. It was a subject close to her heart as she enjoyed reading about the history and mystery attached to life at sea.

''Don't they look dashing in their uniform?'' Lady Russell surprised her by remarking.
''They certainly do,'' Anne admitted and a blush crept up her cheeks.
''Unfortunately, their fortune is made after the war which is why they are below our notice,'' she said sharply so as not to encourage her young friend.

The gentlemen made their way toward them after exchanging the necessary pleasantries with the host, gesticulating excitedly as they walked. Their countenance seemed somewhat weathered by the years spent at sea but their spirits exceeded those of the gentry present. Anne was struck by their animated discourse and open manners. One gentleman stood out to her due to his tall person, broad shoulders and handsome face. Curly blonde hair framed his face in disarray and his piercing blue eyes spoke to her romantic nature. She could not suppress a smile, much to lady Russel's abhorrence. They were no suitable companions for her Anne.

''I should like to meet them. I daresay they have many stories to tell,'' Anne said in a quiet determination Lady Russel knew could not be gainsaid.