It seemed a favourable opportunity to inform him of that fixed
determination of hers: never--in all probability--to marry: but to devote
her life to her work. She was feeling very kindly towards him; and was
able to soften her decision with touches of gentle regret. He did not
appear in the least upset. But 'thought' that her duty might demand,
later on, that she should change her mind: that was if fate should offer
her some noble marriage, giving her wider opportunity.
She was a little piqued at his unexpected attitude of aloofness. What
did he mean by a "noble marriage"--to a Duke, or something of that sort?
He did not think the candidature need be confined to Dukes, though he had
no objection to a worthy Duke. He meant any really great man who would
help her and whom she could help.
She promised, somewhat shortly, to consider the matter, whenever the
Duke, or other class of nobleman, should propose to her. At present no
sign of him had appeared above the horizon. Her own idea was that, if
she lived long enough, she would become a spinster.
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