In fact, it's even more insidious. A man could be sued for Breach of Promise -- still a viable legal cause of action in many societies -- should he attempt to withdraw from an engagement. Imagine not only having the ton spreading gossip of your unfaithful word, but then facing your peers in the box when your former intended's father seeks recompense! Oh, yes! One would need more than a cool cloth to quell the fire of embarrassment in one's countenance! Think of quitting the realm for refuge in America or farthest Asia!