In Georgette Heyer's "The Reluctant Widow," a central theme revolves around communication and the complexities of knowledge in relationships. The quote expresses a character's acknowledgment of being perceived as an expert. This perception arises from their cautiousness in sharing information, implying that they only relay facts they are confident about, rather than speculating or guessing.
This dynamic highlights an interesting aspect of human interaction—how silence or restraint in sharing knowledge can lead to assumptions about one's level of understanding. The character's reluctance to divulge uncertain information creates a facade of omniscience, emphasizing the importance of clarity and honesty in relationships, while also exploring the nuances of trust and perception.