People could only look for a spouse within their own social class and it was common for women to seek out the eldest son, as they kept the estate. The “marriage market” began in January and ended in June. If a young lady couldn't find a husband in three seasons, she could largely expect to spend her life as a spinster. Couples were never allowed to be alone with each other and would only converse in the presence of a chaperone. A gentleman would call on a lady at her family home to spend time together and determine each other’s character.