Part 39: Without Discontent

Michaelmas had appeared very distant at the start of the month; now it was a mere five days away, and Henry must make some decisions.

His housekeeper remained an invaluable asset well worth her weight in gold. So far, so easy; but should he retain the boy? Will was useful but hardly required for the stable. In fact, should Henry keep both horses? Or the curricle?

A bitter part of his heart murmured that he was likely not to marry until next Michaelmas, and so it hardly mattered. This flame sputtered as soon as it sparked, and Henry snuffed it completely rather than dwell on a negative. Whether in one year or three, a bride would eventually come to Woodston, and the parsonage should be ready to receive her.

The arrival of the mail was most welcome that afternoon, and he read Catherine's reply to his earlier sent inquires on the subject with eager relish. There were very few matters they did not discuss by now.

Already, it was their home to build together.

Title from Chapter 16 of Northanger Abbey: "... the necessity of waiting between two and three years before they could marry, being, however unwelcome, no more than he had expected, was borne by him without discontent."

Edited 9/27/2022: thanks to commenter tlh_in_tlh at AO3 for pointing out a spelling error.