When 23-24-year-old Frank finally sets foot in Highbury, he turns everyone's (especially Emma's) heads with his handsomeness, cheerfulness, and gentlemanly demeanor. However, beneath his charming face, he has a selfish, comfort-loving, and deceitful side. He is under the strict guardianship of his wealthy aunt in Enscombe and has not visited his own father for years. Although he is secretly engaged to Jane Fairfax in Weymouth, he hides this fact from the world; to cover up the situation when he arrives in Highbury, he openly flirts with Emma to distract attention. His behavior causes Jane pain, stirs up trouble, and causes Mr. Knightley to hate him. However, when he gains his independence upon Mrs. Churchill's death and clears the air by apologizing to Jane and revealing the secret, he somehow gets off the hook.
