A Damsel in Distress · Chapter
XXII explained
A week after Lord Marshmoreton's visit to London, Keggs the butler lectures Albert about his failed scheme and reveals that he arranged a meeting between Lady Maud and Mr.
What happens
A week after Lord Marshmoreton's visit to London, Keggs the butler lectures Albert about his failed scheme and reveals that he arranged a meeting between Lady Maud and Mr. Bevan. Keggs then advises Lord Belpher to adopt a strategy of apparent acceptance to undermine the romance, citing past examples. Lord Belpher agrees, and Keggs later sends Albert with an invitation for Mr. Bevan to dine at the castle.
Themes in this chapter
Social Class and Marriage
Keggs's advice to Lord Belpher centers on class differences, using the example of a roller-skating instructor to illustrate how exposure to aristocratic surroundings can break a romantic attachment.
Rebellion Against Authority
Albert's defiance of Keggs and his earlier meddling in Maud's romance represent a minor rebellion against the established order of the household.
The Comedy of Errors
The butler's manipulation and Albert's failed schemes create a comedic tone, with Keggs outwitting both Albert and Lord Belpher.
Characters to notice
- Keggs
The butler lectures Albert, reveals he arranged a meeting between Maud and Bevan, and advises Lord Belpher on a strategy to end the romance.
- Albert
Morose after losing his bet, he is scolded by Keggs and later tasked with delivering an invitation to Mr. Bevan.
- Lord Belpher
Percy listens to Keggs's advice about handling Maud's romance and agrees to speak to his father about inviting Bevan to the castle.
- George Bevan
Referenced as the recipient of the dinner invitation; he had a meeting with Maud arranged by Keggs.
- Lady Maud Marsh
Mentioned as having had an interview with Mr. Bevan, arranged by Keggs.
- Lord Marshmoreton
Referenced as the one who visited London a week prior and to whom Keggs will report the invitation.
- Reggie Byng
His elopement is the subject of dinner conversation, causing Albert pain.
Key passages
“It is my experience that opposition in matters of the 'eart is useless, feedin', as it, so to speak, does the flame.”
Keggs argues that trying to stop a romance only makes the lovers more determined.
Keggs advises Lord Belpher against direct opposition, suggesting it strengthens the attachment.
“Seein' the young man in the surroundings of 'er own 'ome, 'er ladyship soon began to see that she had taken too romantic a view of 'im previous.”
When Lady Catherine saw the roller-skating instructor in her own home environment, she realized she had idealized him.
Keggs uses this anecdote to illustrate how familiarity can dispel romantic illusions.