In the scene, Jamie is frustrated and defensive in response to a question about the midwives for the birth of his child. He expresses irritation, implying that he did not choose nor was involved in the decision to engage the midwives. His tone suggests a mix of annoyance and helplessness regarding the situation.

The narrative also reveals the context of loss and hardship; the previous midwife, Mrs. Martin, who had served the family well, died during the famine that followed the historic battle of Culloden. Jamie's hope now rests on Mrs. Innes, the younger midwife, as he doubts his lack of influence over crucial decisions related to childbirth and family care.