I just wished to know if you mean to marry the girl. Spite…
““I just wished to know if you mean to marry the girl. Spite of what you said of her lightness, I ha' known her long enough to be sure she'll make a noble wife for any one, let him be what he may; and I mean to stand by her like a brother; and if you mean rightly, you'll not think the worse on me for what I've now said; and if--but no, I'll not say what I'll do to the man who wrongs a hair of her head. He shall rue it to the longest day he lives, that's all. Now, sir, what I ask of you is this. If you mean fair and honourable by her, well and good: but if not, for your own sake as well as hers, leave her alone, and never speak to her more.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A speaker urges a man to respect a woman's autonomy and warns against harming her, emphasizing honor and protection.
In simple terms: Protect a woman's honor and stay away if intentions are bad.
Key Takeaway
Respect and protect her dignity.
Themes
honor
protection
autonomy
Mood
serious
protective
Type
advice
ethical
When to use this quote
- courtship
- family advice
- personal boundaries
Key Concepts
ethical duty
gender respect
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you ensure your actions honor others?
- What safeguards protect vulnerable individuals?
A Different Perspective
If the man is not honorable, the warning may be ignored.