Elizabeth became properly acquainted with Richard Brinsley Sheridan in October 1770, not long after the Sheridan family arrived in Bath. The Sheridans were invited to the Linley home as Elizabeth's father was seeking to impress Thomas Sheridan with the grandeur of his house while Sheridan wished to elicit help gaining new students. A close friendship soon developed between the teenage members of the families.
In October 1770, Elizabeth met Richard Brinsley Sheridan when the Sheridan family arrived in Bath. The Sheridans were invited to the Linley home for a social gathering, where Elizabeth's father hoped to impress Thomas Sheridan with his wealth and status, while Sheridan sought to recruit new students for his school. A close relationship soon blossomed between the teenagers.