He wants somebody to look after Pamela, and set him free for his hobbies.

He'll very soon find out that this woman fills the part, and that, if he marries her, he'll get a classical secretary besides.' Mrs.Strang's voice--a deep husky voice--interposed.
'Miss Bremerton's not a woman to be married against her will, that you may be sure of, Alice.' 'No, but, my dear,' said the other impatiently, 'every woman over thirty wants a home--and a husband.

She'd get that here anyway, however bad father's affairs may be.

And, of course, a _position_.' The voices passed on out of hearing.

Elizabeth remained transfixed.
Then with a contemptuous shake of the head, and a bright colour, she returned to her work.
But now, as she sat meditating on the hill-side, this absurd conversation recurred to her.