How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #4
For we Husbands, hereabout, said he, are resolv'd to turn over a new Leaf with our Wives, and your Lord and Master shall shew us the way, I can tell you that. (92.128)
Sir Simon says that local husbands are about to turn over a new leaf based on Pamela and Mr. B's relationship. We're assuming this is meant to be a good thing, since apparently Pamela and Mr. B are a model couple now; we sure hope it doesn't mean sexually and physically terrifying their wives into a sort of Stockholm-syndrome obedience.
Quote #5
But they were the Beauties of her Mind, that made me her Husband; and proud, my sweet Dear, said he, pressing my Hand, am I of that Title. (92.138)
Uh-uh. Mr. B totally loves Pamela for the beauties of her mind, not of her … well, you fill in the blank. Either way, we're pretty sure Richardson is actually trying to be all progressive here by insisting that wives need to be intelligent and educated in addition to pretty and fertile, but it's going to be a looooooong time before that becomes the dominant attitude. Like, hundreds of years long.
Quote #6
And Lady Jones was pleased to say, The Company and Behaviour of you two happy Ones to each other, are the most edifying I ever knew. I am always improv'd when I see you. (92.164)
Man, we just love hanging out with our edifying friends. Who cares about finding funny, interesting, or clever people to spend time with; we just want our friends to teach us how to be a better married couples. It makes those dinner parties so much more fun.