Here was an opportunity for her to test her own theory; to prove to herself, and others, that she was right.

They--'they' being the impersonal opponents of, or unbelievers in, her theory--would see that a woman could propose as well as a man; and that the result would be good.
It is a part of self-satisfaction, and perhaps not the least dangerous part of it, that it has an increasing or multiplying power of its own.
The desire to do increases the power to do; and desire and power united find new ways for the exercise of strength.

Up to now Stephen's inclination towards Leonard had been vague, nebulous; but now that theory showed a way to its utilisation it forthwith began to become, first definite, then concrete, then substantial.

When once the idea had become a possibility, the mere passing of time did the rest.
Her aunt saw--and misunderstood.

The lesson of her own youth had not been applied; not even of those long hours and days and weeks at which she hinted when she had spoken of the tragedy of life which by inference was her own tragedy: 'to love and to be helpless.