A Tale of Two Cities · Chapter
X: Two Promises explained
Charles Darnay, now established as a tutor and translator in England, seeks an audience with Doctor Manette to confess his love for Lucie.
What happens
Charles Darnay, now established as a tutor and translator in England, seeks an audience with Doctor Manette to confess his love for Lucie. He asks for the Doctor's promise that if Lucie ever reveals her feelings, the Doctor will support him. Doctor Manette agrees, but insists that Darnay reveal his true identity only on his marriage morning. The chapter also covers Darnay's industrious life in England and his persistent, yet patient, love for Lucie.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Family
Darnay's love for Lucie is central, and his promise to Doctor Manette emphasizes the bond between father and daughter.
Sacrifice and Redemption
Darnay's willingness to delay his own happiness and reveal his identity only on marriage morning reflects personal sacrifice for the sake of trust and redemption.
Fate and History
The shadow of Darnay's past (his true identity and the murder at the château) looms over his present, intertwining personal fate with historical events.
Characters to notice
- Charles Darnay
Seeks Doctor Manette's blessing to court Lucie, promises to reveal his true identity on his marriage morning.
- Doctor Manette
Grants Darnay's request for a promise, but insists on delaying Darnay's revelation of his identity; shows signs of inner struggle and returns to shoemaking after the conversation.
- Lucie Manette
Returns home to find her father disturbed; comforts him and later checks on him while he sleeps.
- Miss Pross
Accompanies Lucie on household errands; goes straight upstairs upon returning.
- Mr. Stryver
Mentioned as having visited Doctor Manette recently with Sydney Carton.
- Sydney Carton
Mentioned as having visited Doctor Manette recently with Mr. Stryver.
Key passages
“Charles Darnay, mysteries arise out of close love, as well as out of wide division; in the former case, they are subtle and delicate, and difficult to penetrate.”
Doctor Manette tells Darnay that even deep love can create mysteries that are hard to understand.
Doctor Manette reflects on the complexity of intimate relationships.
“If she should ever tell me that you are essential to her perfect happiness, I will give her to you.”
Doctor Manette promises to support Darnay if Lucie declares her love for him.
The Doctor agrees to Darnay's request for a promise.
“Tell me when I ask you, not now. If your suit should prosper, if Lucie should love you, you shall tell me on your marriage morning.”
Doctor Manette insists that Darnay reveal his true identity only on the day of his marriage to Lucie.
The Doctor delays Darnay's confession of his past.