I won't let her.

I'm a man of influence in this town, and outside of it, too.

I'm head of the parish committee and a member of the National Regular Society.

I can't reach your precious ward, maybe, but I can reach the fellow she's after, and if he marries her, I'll drive 'em both to the poorhouse.
"Here's where you come in, Hammond.

It may be she does really care for him.