“Papa,” Rose said, “don’t let him fool you. He’s a rogue and an outrage.” She winked at her father. “And once you know him, you’ll like him very well. I promise.”
Stephen met her gaze, and then, ever so slowly, he smiled. “Ah,” he said with a shake of his head. “I love it when you talk sweetly to me.”
Epilogue
December, 1882
Dear Man,
I do not wish to know what the average man wants in a woman; I wish to know what you want in a woman. Tell me, how is a woman like me ever to attract you?
—Blushing in Bedford
Dear Blushing,
Over the years of my writing this column, I have received literally thousands of letters asking this question. Until now, I have never answered.
I don’t ask for much in a woman. I like mathematics, astronomy, and women who can multiply nine-digit numbers in their heads. The difficult part was convincing her to like me back.
You had all better wish her luck. I think she’ll need it.
Sincerely hers,
Stephen Shaughnessy
Committed Man