What are Godfrey's arguments for adopting Eppie in Silas Marner Silas Marner is the third novel by English author George Eliot - the pen name of Mary Ann Evans It was published in In the novel Godfrey Cass wants to adopt Eppie because he believes it is his duty as her biological father Godfrey also believes Eppie will have a better life with him and his wife Nancy Providing Her Better Life Godfrey Cass argues that he can give Eppie things Silas Marner cannot like a wealthy home good clothes and a higher social status He believes he can provide her with a better position and everything of the best He thinks these will make her happy Godfrey also feels it is his right as her biological father to provide for her Godfrey says It's my duty Marner to own Eppie as my child and provide for her She is