I had been looking round, – in fact, for Estella, – and I stammered that I hoped she was well. “Abroad,” said Miss Havisham; “educating for a lady; far out of reach; prettier than ever; admired by all who see her. Do you feel that you have lost her?” There was such a malignant enjoyment in her utterance of the last words, and she broke into such a disagreeable laugh, that I was at a loss what to say.
– Charles Dickens
Great Expectations, Chapter 15. When Pip visits Satis House after an extended absence and asks about Estella, Miss Havisham takes a twisted satisfaction in the answer she gives. She tells a confused Pip that Estella has gone abroad to be educated to be a lady. She says that she is far out of reach, has many admirers and asks Pip if he feels he has lost her. Miss Havisham plays the class card to add to Pip’s hurt. Having brought up Estella as a tool for revenge against men because her own heart was broken, Miss Havisham appears pleased her plan has worked.