Emma Woodhouse’s visit to Box Hill goes disastrously wrong: “There was a languor, a want of spirits, a want of union, which could not be got over,” even before Frank Churchill flirts outrageously, Mr. Weston proposes a foolish word game, and Emma publicly humiliates Miss Bates.
Nevertheless, it’s a JASNA-NJ tradition to hold a summertime “Box Hill” outing of our own, and this year’s will take place on Saturday, September 20, just two days before the season officially ends. Since it’s too late to follow the example of Mrs. Elton and pick strawberries in the sunshine, we’ll instead be picking apples (but fingers crossed for the sunshine).
Weather permitting, we will meet at 2 pm at Battleview Orchards, 91 Wemrock Road in Freehold, a family-owned farm for more than a century and one of the state’s oldest pick-your-own operations. Please note: you’ll need cash to pay for anything you pick, although the farm’s country store accepts credit cards for its pies and cider donuts (yum!). The orchard provides picking containers, so leave your backpacks and grocery bags at home.
After our apple-picking labors, we will gather at a local restaurant to drink tea, compare our takings, and find out who plans to attend JASNA’s upcoming 250th anniversary bash in Baltimore. No languor, want of spirits, or want of union for us!
If you can join us on September 20, please email the region — jasnanewjersey AT gmail DOT com – with your RSVP by Thursday, September 18. Include your phone number so we can let you know if plans must be adjusted due to inclement weather.
Jane Austen Society of North America - New Jersey Region 