Becky continues to gloat about her recent successes by blaming George for being a careless gambler (when in fact, she and Rawdon have been specifically scheming to take advantage of George’s gambling). While Becky’s taunts may seem cruel, they also reflect insecurity, with Becky feeling like she needs to justify her newly elevated position by putting Amelia down. At the ball, Becky and George get increasingly bold about spending time with each other, without even trying to hide it from their spouses. While they might seem reckless, arguably all of the characters share some of this recklessness by attending a ball on the eve of a battle.