He sighed.

“But, my dear child, what do you propose to do?”

“Have adventures and see the world,” I replied, without the least hesitation.

“Miss Anne, you are very much of a child still. You don’t understand⁠—”

“The practical difficulties? Yes, I do, doctor. I’m not a sentimental schoolgirl⁠—I’m a hardheaded mercenary shrew! You’d know it if you married me!”

“I wish you would reconsider⁠—”

“I can’t.”

He sighed again.

“I have another proposal to make. An aunt of mine who lives in Wales is in want of a young lady to help her. How would that suit you?”