Elizabeth could and would put an end to that.

She had already done much to modify it.

In her Greek scholarship, and her ready wits, she possessed all the spells that were wanted for the taming of the Squire.
As to the Squire himself?
She examined the matter dispassionately.
He was fifty-two--sound in wind and limb--a gentleman in spite of all his oddities and tempers--and one of the best Greek scholars of his day.

She could make her own terms.

'I would take his name--give him my time, my brains, my friendship--in time, no doubt, my affection.' He would not ask for more.