Quote
Jim G.M.
She still had all her options open after refusing Frederick. He had but few except to hope his famous luck would carry him through. Realistically he had every right to feel aggrieved and be guilty of nothing.
I disagree with the first two statements being put together as contrast. They both had the same options open (after breaking up) as before their engagement (because of their station in life they had different opportunities to begin with). This is not a reason to feel upset.
It is also true that as the story attests, Anne being dependent on an unreliable parent did not turn out well for her - she lost some of her original options, her financial status and marrageability decreased while Frederick's fortune and marriageability increased. However, you seem to disapprove that Anne did not choose to risk her security, close up
her options and tie herself down to the uncertain fate of Frederick. Is this why you think F was right and A was wrong? is this what the JA quote means in this context for you - that Anne chose to remain in calm waters?
I also have to say, although young men in early twenties may be impulsive and emotional, they were (especially in that era) expected to shoulder adult responsibilities (a Navy officer in particular) and consider things rationally. Offering marriage was the same sort of adult decision, taking on responsibility for the future welfare of one's wife. He ought not to have made this decision lightly.
