The speaker expresses a complex view of love and courtesy, suggesting that while they are admired by many women, they struggle with their own feelings, admitting a lack of affection for anyone. This admission highlights their emotional detachment and perhaps a desire to remain unfettered by romantic entanglements.
Beatrice responds to this sentiment with a mix of sarcasm and relief, valuing her own independence and preferring the simplicity of her dog’s barking over the complications of a man's affections. This exchange reflects the play's themes of love, relationships, and the societal expectations placed on women regarding romance.