The Unwanted Wedding

think actually it will tell me a great number of things that you are too shy to tell me yourself,”

Instead Honora’s laughter came spontaneously and unaffectedly and she laughed with her eyes as well as with her throat.

Perhaps – you think it – impertinent of me to – approve or disapprove, but what I said was very sincere.”

“I am gratified by your approval, Honora

“Music must not only lift your heart,” he said, “but the hearts of all who listen to you. Therefore don’t play with your fingers but with your soul!”

When she said goodbye to Sister Benedict, who had brought her to London, and to the other pupils who were being carried on to their homes, she felt as if she was saying goodbye to everything that was safe and familiar and embarking on an unknown sea that was rough and very unpredictable.

but love, my darling, is something that cannot be turned on like a tap. Either it is there, or it is not, and no amount of tears, words or pleas can produce it.”

Then he said,

“I loved her and – this is the truth – we never for one moment grew bored with each other because we laughed at the same things and stimulated each other’s minds. And that, my poppet, is very very important when you are choosing a husband.”

No, my dearest, but, while they will be beguiled and enchanted by your face, you must make sure they want more than that.”

The Queen Victoria, despite the fact that she had had three children, was dancing energetically with a radiant look in her eyes that proclaimed her happiness.