Misreading Mr. Elton

In chapter six, Emma misses several obvious hints from Mr. Elton that he is in love with her and has no desire to court Harriet. The only reason Emma reads the hints the way she does is because she wishes her friend and Mr. Elton will form an attachment. In the very beginning of the chapter, Mr. Elton praises the changes in Harriet. However, Emma does not pick up on the fact that he is actually endeavoring to compliment her ability to implement these changes in Harriet's character. "You have given Miss Smith... you have made her graceful... the attractions you have added..." are some of the overlooked compliments Mr. Elton pays Emma (26). He also shows a keen interest in her drawing abilities. How Emma manages to miss these clues and consider herself only "a pretty good share as a second" is beyond me (31).