MARRIAGE and SETTLEMENT

As Franklin is growing his printing business, he shares a house with the Godfrey family, and Mrs. Godfrey brings a marriage proposal to him. Franklin considers the offer and courts the young lady. In order to marry, however, he expects money from the matrimony to pay off his debts. His proposal is rejected, for there are questions as to whether he will make his printing business profitable. But Franklin is eager to marry and settle down. He again courts Ms. Read, whose marriage to the potter has ended. They are married on September 1, 1730. They live with mutual respect, affection, and understanding for one another. Franklin is delighted to have corrected one of the errata in his life.

Notes

In this section, Franklin's practicality is seen. When Mrs. Godfrey presents a marriage proposal to him to a wealthy young lady, he explains that he expects his debts to be paid off as part of the matrimonial agreement. When his offer is rejected, he seeks out the company of Ms. Read. He does not begrudge her previous marriage in his absence and understands why she has left her husband. He knows he is ready to marry and settle down, so he courts Ms. Read with those intentions. They are married and live a very comfortable life together.

Table of Contents | Printable Version