Question

Re-write the following passage into modern – but standard – English. Evaluation will be on how accurately you capture the essence of what is being said. "Depend upon it, Elton will not do. Elton is a very good sort of man, and a very respectable vicar of Highbury, but not at all likely to make an imprudent match. He knows the value of a good income as well as anybody. Elton may talk sentimentally, but he will act rationally. He is as well acquainted with his own claims as you can be with Harriet’s. He knows that he is a very handsome young man, and a great favourite wherever he goes; and from his general way of talking in unreserved moments, when there are only men present, I am convinced that he does not mean to throw himself away. I have heard him speak with great animation of a large family

of young ladies that his sisters are intimate with, who have all twenty thousand pounds apiece."

Answer 1

The given passage is expressing doubts about the suitability of a man named Elton as a partner and describing his characteristics. A rephrased version of the passage would convey the same message in modern standard English.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the given passage, the speaker is expressing their opinion about a man named Elton and their doubts about his suitability as a partner. They acknowledge that Elton is a respectable person and a vicar, but they believe he values money and will not make a rash decision in choosing a partner. The speaker also mentions that Elton talks sentimentally but acts rationally, and that he is aware of his own worth and the attention he receives from others.

An example of rephrasing the passage in modern standard English could be:

I don't think Elton is the right person for you. He is a good man and a respected vicar, but he is unlikely to make a reckless choice in finding a partner. He values money and is conscious of his own attractiveness. I have heard him talk passionately about a group of wealthy ladies his sisters know.