This one's affable cooperation will not make him any less of a nuisance to see safely married off, in all likelihood, and well he knows it. His low chuckle says as much, though perhaps more to Adelaide than to Francois, who will have time yet to become acquainted with the surface nuances of his moods and ways.

"The Margravine settled for a woman who would have me," he observes, relaxing his stance somewhat as he shifts to accommodate various measurements taken. "What an adventure."

A bit dry, yes, but unconcerned. Marriage is -

Not an unpleasant prospect. A family is not an unpleasant prospect. If he doubts the likelihood of finding something suitable, he is at least charmed by the notion of trying.