The youngest Merriville, bursting into the room some time…
““The youngest Merriville, bursting into the room some time later, found them seated side by side on the sofa. 'Buddle said I wasn't to disturb you, but I knew that was fudge,' he said scornfully. 'Cousin Alverstoke, there is someting I particularly wanted to ask you!' He broke off, perceiving suddenly, and with disfavour, that his Cousin Alverstoke had an arm round Frederica. Revolted by such a betrayal of unmanliness, he bent a disapproving look upon his idol and demanded: 'Why are you cuddling Frederica, sir?' 'Because we are going to be married,' replied his lordship calmly. 'It's obligatory, you know. One is expected to -er - cuddle the lady one is going to marry.' 'Oh!' said Felix. 'Well, I won't ask anyone to marry me , if that's what you have to do! I just say I never thought that you sir would have-' Again he broke off, as a thought struck him. 'Will that make her a - a She -Marquis? Oh, Jessamy, did you hear that? Frederica is going to be a She-Marquis!' 'What you mean is a Marchioness, you ignorant little ape!' replied his austere brother.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Social expectations and personal honor clash, revealing hypocrisy in aristocratic customs; true integrity may defy convention.
In simple terms: Honor vs. social norms creates conflict.
Key Takeaway
Stand by personal integrity.
Themes
honor
social norms
hypocrisy
Mood
dramatic
reflective
Type
literary
social commentary
When to use this quote
- family gatherings
- courtship
- political alliances
Key Concepts
aristocratic etiquette
personal values
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you faced pressure to conform?
- How do you balance duty and personal belief?
A Different Perspective
Society may punish those who challenge tradition.