brutal prodding by jamie forced him past deprecating murmurs about the fraulein 's friends no doubt being the best judge of her happiness , his own unsuitability , poverty , and general unworthiness as a husband , and into-at long last-a reckless admission that , well , if the fraulein should not be terribly averse to the prospect , perhaps ... well ... in a word ... `` aye , sir , '' he said , looking terrified at his own boldness .