Taken thus by surprise, it was several moments before she…
““Taken thus by surprise, it was several moments before she was able to decide whether to make herself known to him, or to await a formal introduction. The strict propriety in which she had been reared urged her to adopt the latter course; then she remembered that she was not a young girl any longer, but a guardian-aunt ... To flinch before what would certainly be an extremely disagreeable interview would be the act, she told herself, of a pudding-heart. Bracing herself resolutely, she got up from the writing-table, and turned, saying, in a cool, pleasant tone: 'Mr Calverleigh?' He had picked up a newspaper from the table in the centre of the room, and was glancing through it, but he lowered it, and looked enquiringly across at her. His eyes, which were deep-set and of a light grey made the more striking by the swarthiness of his complexion, held an expression of faint surprise; he said: 'Yes?””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A young woman wrestles with social expectations versus personal desire, choosing to act despite propriety.
In simple terms: She decides to confront a man directly despite feeling shy.
Key Takeaway
Act boldly rather than wait for formalities.
Themes
social pressure
self‑assertion
gender roles
Mood
nervous
determined
Type
literary
dialogue
When to use this quote
- formal introductions
- romantic encounters
- career networking
Key Concepts
Victorian etiquette
personal agency
inner conflict
Questions to Reflect On
- Will you let propriety dictate your choices?
- How can you balance respect with self‑expression?
A Different Perspective
Choosing action may still feel uncomfortable and risky.