The Engagement of Jane and Rochester

This morning I heard of the engagement of Miss Eyre and Mr. Rochester.

The announcement caught me off guard. While I typically begin my morning with a study of the Scriptures, today I could not focus.

It is not that I wish for the wedding to be called off; I simply want Miss Eyre to be careful and guard her heart. She is such a young thing, with so much life ahead of her. Mr. Rochester, on the other hand, is older and full of secrets. I simply hope she knows what she is getting into.

During my Scripture study, Jane entered the parlour. I tried to smile and congratulate her, but my heart was heavy with worry. “I hardly know what to say to you, Miss Eyre,” I heard myself saying. “I have surely not been dreaming, have I? Now, can you tell me whether it is actually true that Mr. Rochester has asked you to marry him?”

I could only hope that I had been in a daze, seeing ghosts who spoke to me in a dream-like state. It sometimes happens that I see my deceased husband, fifteen years dead. Could a similar thing have happened with Mr. Rochester? Have I been haunted by his seemingly real ghost?

Miss Eyre confirmed the engagement. I am sure the look on my face was bewilderment; I never was able to hide my emotions from people. This marriage is unfathomable. How could Mr. Rochester, a man so proud and wealthy, wish to marry a woman who is poor and so unsure of herself? The age difference alone is enough to raise questions. Yet Miss Eyre accepted the engagement – why? Does she love him, or does she seek comfort in his wealth?

Before I could stop myself, the words tumbled out: “Is it really for love he is going to marry you?”

I knew at once I should have kept my mouth shut. The hurt in Miss Eyre’s eyes was obvious. I apologized for my statement. She is simply so young and unaware of all the world has to offer her. Is she sure she wants to marry him? I confess, Mr. Rochester has shown great interest in her recently, and Miss Eyre has reciprocated the sentiments. I am simply worried for her well-being. I fear she does not yet know Mr. Rochester’s well-kept secret, and my heart breaks for her reaction when the secret is spilled.

I warned Miss Eyre to keep her distance and to distrust Mr. Rochester; she clearly did not accept my words and frowned at my advice. There is nothing more I can do except wait. I pray that God will right this situation and put my troubled heart at ease – however He may do that. I seek His will and trust Him in all things. I only hope that Miss Eyre has prayed about this and is seeking God’s will as well.

Sincerely,
Mrs. Fairfax
(Source: Jane Eyre, pages 225-226)