“Mr. H. began with Elizabeth, and afterwards danced with her again; but they do not know how to be particular. I flatter myself, however, that they will profit by the three successive lessons which I have given them.”
letter to Cassandra
January 9, 1796
Jane was joking about dancing three times with Tom Lefroy at the ball the night before. I believe dancing with anyone more than twice would provoke talk.
This is Jane’s first surviving letter.
The Jane Austen Guide to Life: Thoughtful Lessons for the Modern Woman (May, 2012)
A Walk with Jane Austen: A Journey into Adventure, Love, and Faith