She hardly knew yet what Mr. Knightley would ask; but a very short parley with her own heart produced the most solemn resolution of never quitting her father. – She even wept over the idea of it, as a sin of thought. While he lived, it must be only an engagement.
– Jane Austen
Emma, Chapter 50. In the aftermath of Emma’s engagement to Mr. Knightley, we see her deep devotion and loyalty to her father. Amid her burgeoning romance, her concern is for the impact of her marriage on him. So she resolves never to leave him and not marry until he dies. Personification is used to emphasize the depth of her concern, Emma having a “parley” or discussion with her heart.