of wisdom, when Lady Russell's common sense rules for both of them, a fond reminder of that time when they were young and impetuous, and incredibly in love they realize could withstand a wait. That is, real love, so to speak! ;-)

However, I still think there were a lot of other factors in involved. I wonder if CathyAllen has a point, and that it stemmed from Cassandra's experience?

There was also the massive prejudice Sir Walter and his daughter had about his profession.

And I do also wonder at this, because Frederick could've come back much, much earlier to make his second approach, but he didn't.

It's also of interest that Captain Benwick's wife died, before he secured the means for them to prosper, and caused him a lot of pain. Was this a parallel?