Reputation, an Easy Thing to Lose (Reputation Verse, #1)

by E.M. Storm-Smith

“Miss Elizabeth, I believe you will find that you are no longer a gentlewoman, but simply a gently bred servant. I have been trying to change that situation, but I will not tolerate such insolence from you when you are my wife.” “And when exactly do you believe that I shall be your wife, sir? So far, you have been barely introduced to me at a crowded dinner party, you have taken extreme liberties both with my person and my name on the second day we have ever been in company together, and now you have insulted me most grievously. I should like to never see your face again after this moment, and I can assure you that I shall never agree to be your wife!”

Jane doubted again whether she and Madeline were correct to introduce Elizabeth to eligible men, when Tannerbaugh suddenly reached out and struck Elizabeth across the cheek.