In this quote, Samuel Richardson is highlighting the power dynamics in between males and females in society. He suggests that a man may have control over a woman, however he can not control his own wealth or possessions. This might be interpreted as a commentary on the societal expectations put on guys to be the breadwinners and companies, while females are often viewed as reliant and subservient. Richardson might likewise be suggesting that a male's real worth and success should not be measured by his ability to control a lady, however rather by his ability to maintain and grow his own estate.
