There is a great deal of uncertainty about the whole thing.

In fact, Ann has had a great deal of trouble." "I'm sorry," he said with a simplicity she liked in him.
"Yes, a great deal of trouble.

Last year both her father and mother died, which was a great blow to her." "Well, rather!" "And now there are all sorts of business things to straighten out.

It's really very hard for Ann." "Perhaps we can help her," he suggested.
"Perhaps we can," agreed Kate.

Her eyes left him to wander across the shadows down to the river again.