Fear
Throughout the book, Anthony expresses many fears. His major fear is that of death, and he is constantly reminded of this through memories of his own father’s death by a bee sting. His second fear comes in the form of fear of losing his loved ones, in particular that of a wife and a family, should he die before he expects to.
Marriage
In the beginning, Anthony despises the notion of marriage but finally relents due to his mother’s nagging. He does not like the thought of being tied down by a family that he feels he will have to leave behind very soon. Similarly, Kate has no intention of marrying, but for her it is a lack of options. The two are reluctant to marry but end up doing so, and to each other.
Unexpected love
Anthony wanted to marry Edwina initially, because he was determined to only be part of a marriage where he would not fall in love with his spouse. However, his plans are derailed by Kate’s antics, as she tries to prove to her sister that he is a notorious rake. Nevertheless, in the end he realizes that although he did not want it, he has found love in Kate.
