As you have hinted, it will be an advantage to me in some ways to have a lady for my wife; but I should have no difficulty in purchasing that advantage, even with my present means, which I expect to increase largely in the course of some years.

Do you not underrate your daughter's personal qualities when you assume that it was her position that induced me to seek her hand ?" "I am quite aware of my daughter's personal advantages.

They are additional reasons against her contracting an imprudent marriage." "Precisely.

But in what respect would her marriage with me be imprudent?
I possess actual competence, and a prospect of wealth.

I come of a long lived and healthy family.