] Second, that the misery the colonel has suffered in his own life has very much coloured his view of many things, giving him quite a different perspective from most other men.

I won't disagree with any of that. I think Brandon also respects Edward for "keeping his word" (to Mary Lucy Steele), and for displaying resolution in the face of parental objections and the prospects of a life of genteel poverty.

I remain,
Jason E.