He felt shocked-and rather disapproving. He was more shocked still to realize this and did his best to dismiss the feeling; it wasn't his business to be shocked, and even if it were … well, it had been a very long time since Fraser's wife had died, and he was a man. And an honorable one. Better to marry than burn, they say, he thought cynically. I wouldn't know.
The character experiences a mix of shock and disapproval upon realizing his feelings, acknowledging that it is not his place to judge. He attempts to dismiss these emotions, reflecting on the long time since Fraser's wife had passed away. Despite his reservations, he contemplates societal views on remarriage, particularly in regard to men's honor and desires. His thoughts reveal a conflict between personal principles and societal expectations.
This inner turmoil underscores the complexities of grief and moving forward in life after loss. The character grapples with his sense of morality, questioning whether it is appropriate to feel shocked by Fraser considering a new relationship. The phrase "Better to marry than burn" highlights the practical reasoning often employed in matters of love and desire, suggesting a tension between duty and personal judgment.
