Frank Churchill is recalled to Enscombe

Just as the ball plans are underway, Frank Churchill receives a letter from his uncle, Mr. Churchill, summoning him back to Enscombe because Mrs. Churchill is unwell. Frank must leave immediately, dashing the hopes for the ball. He takes a hurried leave of Emma, appearing genuinely distressed. Emma is disappointed but also feels a strange sense of relief, as she was beginning to fear her own feelings for him were becoming too strong.