He did not appear in the least upset.

But 'thought' that her duty might demand, later on, that she should change her mind: that was if fate should offer her some noble marriage, giving her wider opportunity.
She was a little piqued at his unexpected attitude of aloofness.

What did he mean by a "noble marriage"-- to a Duke, or something of that sort?
He did not think the candidature need be confined to Dukes, though he had no objection to a worthy Duke.

He meant any really great man who would help her and whom she could help.
She promised, somewhat shortly, to consider the matter, whenever the Duke, or other class of nobleman, should propose to her.

At present no sign of him had appeared above the horizon.