" You will remember,” he said, “to come and view my library.” I strained my neck to look up at him. “I am sorry,” I told him, “but I cannot.” “May I ask the reason?” “My uncle,” I said plainly, “has forbidden me to speak to you.” He stared down at me for a long moment, his eyes narrowed in thought. “’Tis odd,” he said slowly. “I’d not have thought you a coward. "

― Susanna Kearsley , Mariana