# XII: The Shower explained — Agnes Grey

> Chapter companion for Agnes Grey by Anne Brontë.

## What happens

Agnes Grey visits Nancy Brown in early March, helping her with sewing and reading. Mr. Weston arrives with Nancy's lost cat, which he saved from the gamekeeper. A brief, polite conversation ensues between Agnes and Mr. Weston, during which he mentions a minor conflict with Mr. Murray over the cat. Agnes returns to Horton Lodge to find Matilda angry about having to make tea alone due to the rain.

## Themes in this chapter

### The Plight of the Governess

Agnes's lack of autonomy is highlighted by the expectation that she must be immediately available, even during her rare free time.

### Cruelty and Compassion

Mr. Weston's rescue of Nancy's cat contrasts with the gamekeeper's threat to shoot it and Mr. Murray's harsh language.

## Character check-ins

### Agnes Grey

Visits Nancy Brown, reads to her, helps with sewing, and interacts with Mr. Weston.

### Nancy Brown

Anxious about her missing cat; grateful for Mr. Weston's rescue and Agnes's help.

### Edward Weston

Rescues Nancy's cat from the gamekeeper, visits the cottage, and has a polite exchange with Agnes.

### Matilda Murray

Returns early from a ride due to rain, angry that Agnes was not present for tea.

## Key lines

> Whatever occupation I chose, when not actually busied about them or their concerns, I had, as it were, to keep my loins girded, my shoes on my feet, and my staff in my hand; for not to be immediately forthcoming when called for, was regarded as a grave and inexcusable offence

Agnes felt she could never fully relax, as she had to be ready to drop everything the moment she was summoned, or face severe disapproval.

_Illustrates the governess's lack of personal freedom and constant state of readiness._

> I’ve done you a piece of good service, Nancy... I’ve delivered your cat from the hands, or rather the gun, of Mr. Murray’s gamekeeper.

Mr. Weston tells Nancy he saved her cat from being shot by the gamekeeper.

_Demonstrates Mr. Weston's compassionate nature and willingness to intervene._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/agnes_grey_se/chapters/xii-the-shower
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/agnes_grey_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/agnes_grey_se/chapters