His frown was one of sympathy, rather than of disapproval. Of course Miss Alardice would feel this way—it was only natural to want a comapnion for one's journey in life, rather than carry the burden of an undesirable match until one or both parties died. Just look at his poor sister—saddled with a man she (or at least, Stan himself) could never possibly respect, let alone love.

"Forgive me, Miss Alardice—it is not my place to say," the physician chose his words carefully, "but it might do you well, under the circumstances, to remember that your last decision in this particular regard contributed to your present circumstances." Stan knew the young witch must feel guilty and did not want to harp on her for it, but it was important that she understand and appreciate the situation she was in, reconsider what a 'happy' outcome might be.

(Oh, that he were callous enough to just brush her off altogether, her immediate problem no longer a medical one!)