It's a very fine theory, that of women being able to get along without men as well as with them; but, like other fine theories, it will be found very troublesome by those who first put it in practice.

Gloved hands, petticoats, feminine softness, and the general homage paid to beauty, all stand in the way of success.
These things may perhaps some day be got rid of, and possibly with advantage; but while young ladies are still encumbered with them a male companion will always be found to be a comfort.

I don't quite know whether your cousin George is the best possible knight you might have chosen.
I should consider myself to be infinitely preferable, had my going been upon the cards.

Were you in danger of meeting Paynim foes, he, no doubt, would kill them off much quicker than I could do, and would be much more serviceable in liberating you from the dungeons of oppressors, or even from stray tigers in the Swiss forests.

But I doubt his being punctual with the luggage.
He will want you or Kate to keep the accounts, if any are kept.