A really nasty woman, that Corelli

I never married because there was no need.  I have three pets at home which answer the same purpose. I have a dog which growls all morning, a parrot which swears all afternoon and a cat which comes home late at night.  (Marie Corelli)

If you’re shocked by that, here’s some more comforting advice from a father to his daughter:

After the Almighty, let your husband reign in your heart. You have no duty but to obey him. Watch his looks and fulfil all his wishes, conform yourself to his habits and inclinations.

 

Both quoted in Anne de Courcy’s The Husband Hunters, of which more in a future post.