They all agreed that Fanny had had no alternative but to reject the proposition at once.
That, indeed was so thoroughly taken for granted, that the point was not discussed.

But there came to be a difference between the Rector and Fanny on one side, and Mrs.Clavering and Mary on the other.

"Upon my word," said the Rector, "I think it was very impertinent." Fanny would not have liked to use that word herself but she loved her father for using it.
"I do not see that," said Mrs.Clavering.

"He could not know what Fanny's views in life might be.

Curates very often marry out of the houses of the clergymen with whom they are placed, and I do not see why Mr.Saul should be debarred from the privilege of trying." "If he had got to like Fanny what else was he to do ?" said Mary.
"Oh, Mary, don't talk such nonsense," said Fanny.