High in the rank of her most serious and heartfelt felicities, was the reflection that all necessity of concealment from Mr. Knightley would soon be over. The disguise, equivocation, mystery, so hateful to her to practise, might soon be over. She could now look forward to giving him that full and perfect confidence which her disposition was most ready to welcome as a duty.
– Jane Austen
Emma, Chapter 54. With Harriet’s affections no longer focused on Mr. Knightley and she safely back in the patient arms of Mr. Martin, Emma is greatly relieved. Now that Harriet is no longer in love with her betrothed, Emma feels that it is time to practice complete honesty with Mr. Knightley. This means no more deceit and concealment, which Emma admits she hated. She also looks forward to fulfilling her duties as a wife. Emma’s changing attitude towards love and marriage are shown here.