Austen Powers

We humans  like to think that as the centuries pass that we may become more civilised, rational and refined as a species. Certainly we have come a very long way from living in caves, wearing animal skins and living in fear of the dark.

In other respects nothing much has changed.

To illustrate this I have taken the following passage from Northanger Abbey, written as the first novel by Jane Austen in or around 1798 to 1799 but not actually published until close to her death in 1817-18. It is intended to show that Young People have been troublesome to their elders through the ages.

In the time of Jane Austen I expect that the classification of young people applied to anyone under the age of 25 years, single and unattached.

I have simply exchanged two original descriptive words written in the original text for the modern "convertible car".

The dialogue is between two main characters;

"No, certainly not; and I am glad you do not think of it. These schemes are not at all the thing. Young men and women driving about the country in convertible cars!

Now and then it is very well; but going to inns and public places together! It is not right; and I wonder Mrs. Thorpe should allow it. I am glad you do not think of going; I am sure Mrs. Morland would not be pleased. Mrs. Allen, are not you of my way of thinking? Do not you think these kind of projects objectionable?"
   
"Yes, very much so indeed. Convertible cars are nasty things. A clean gown is not five minutes' wear in them. You are splashed getting in and getting out; and the wind takes your hair and your bonnet in every direction. I hate a convertible car myself."
   
"I know you do; but that is not the question. Do not you think it has an odd appearance, if young ladies are frequently driven about in them by young men, to whom they are not even related?"
   
"Yes, my dear, a very odd appearance indeed. I cannot bear to see it."
   
"Dear madam," cried Catherine, "then why did not you tell me so before? I am sure if I had known it to be improper, I would not have gone with Mr. Thorpe at all; but I always hoped you would tell me, if you thought I was doing wrong."
    
"And so I should, my dear, you may depend on it; for as I told Mrs. Morland at parting, I would always do the best for you in my power. But one must not be over particular. Young people will be young people, as your good mother says herself. You know I wanted you, when we first came, not to buy that sprigged muslin, but you would. Young people do not like to be always thwarted."

Suggestions are invited for the substituted two word description from the original novel. The answer has been posted up on the instagram pages of onelastsoul.