Barchester Towers · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for Barchester Towers by Anthony Trollope.
Chapter 1
Who Will Be the New Bishop?
The chapter opens with the death of old Bishop Grantly and the ensuing question of who will succeed him. Archdeacon Grantly, his son, had been led to believe he would inherit the bishopric, but the political landscape shifts as the ministry falls. The archdeacon's hopes are dashed when he learns the government has changed, and Dr. Proudie is ultimately consecrated as the new Bishop of Barchester.
Chapter 2
Hiram’s Hospital According to Act of Parliament
This chapter recounts Mr. Harding's resignation from Hiram's Hospital under public and legal pressure, his subsequent praise from the Archbishop and the press, and the eventual passage of a Parliamentary bill that restructures the charity. It also introduces Eleanor Bold's widowhood and devotion to her infant son, John Bold the Younger.
Chapter 3
Dr. and Mrs. Proudie
This chapter introduces Dr. Proudie, the newly installed Bishop of Barchester, and his domineering wife, Mrs. Proudie. It details Dr. Proudie's background as a liberal clergyman who rose through political connections and his personal appearance. The narrative emphasizes Mrs. Proudie's despotic control over her husband and household, including her strict Sabbatarian rules, and notes the influence of Mr. Slope, the domestic chaplain.
Chapter 4
The Bishop's Chaplain
This chapter introduces the Rev. Mr. Slope, his background, character, and ambitions. It details his lineage, his time at Cambridge, his role as a preacher in London, and his relationship with the Proudie family, including a failed courtship with Olivia Proudie. As Dr. Proudie is appointed Bishop of Barchester, Mr. Slope resolves to become the de facto bishop by outmaneuvering both the bishop and Mrs. Proudie, leveraging his position as chaplain and his knowledge of diocesan affairs.
Chapter 5
A Morning Visit
Mr. Harding and Archdeacon Grantly pay their respects to the newly arrived Bishop Proudie at the palace. They find Mrs. Proudie present in the bishop's study—an unprecedented innovation—and are introduced to the obsequious chaplain Mr. Slope. The visit is marked by tension and mutual disdain, as the archdeacon bristles at the new regime and Mrs. Proudie asserts her authority. Mr. Harding, though personally indifferent to the change, is caught in the crossfire. The chapter ends with the archdeacon's simmering wrath as they depart.
Chapter 6
War
The chapter opens with Archdeacon Grantly and Mr. Harding discussing the new bishop and his chaplain, Mr. Slope. Grantly is furious at the appointment of Dr. Proudie and the influence of Mr. Slope, whom he sees as a low and dangerous adversary. He resolves to wage open war against them, determined to defend the high church traditions of Barchester. Mr. Slope, for his part, has already planned his strategy, choosing to confront Grantly directly rather than conciliate him. The chapter culminates in Mr. Slope's first sermon in the cathedral, which is delivered with boldness and calculated to assert his authority, leaving the congregation in no doubt of his intentions.
Chapter 7
The Dean and Chapter Take Counsel
After Mr. Slope's provocative sermon, the clergy of Barchester, led by Archdeacon Grantly, convene to discuss how to prevent him from preaching again in the cathedral. Mr. Harding suggests toleration, but the archdeacon insists on action, arguing that Slope deliberately insulted the established clergy. Meanwhile, a small party of laypeople, especially ladies, begin to support Slope's new ideas, and a few needy clergymen like Mr. Quiverful court his favor. Dr. and Mrs. Proudie return to London, leaving Slope to continue his machinations.
Chapter 8
The Ex-Warden Rejoices in His Probable Return to the Hospital
Mr. Slope successfully ingratiates himself with Eleanor Bold and Mary Bold through flattery and praise of Mr. Harding, overcoming their initial hostility. Meanwhile, Mr. Harding visits his daughter to share the news that he is likely to be reappointed as warden of Hiram's Hospital under a new arrangement with a reduced income of £450 per annum, the addition of twelve old women and a matron, and the support of Archdeacon Grantly, who assures him the appointment is secure and not a favor from the bishop.
Chapter 9
The Stanhope Family
This chapter introduces the Stanhope family, who have returned to Barchester after twelve years in Italy due to pressure from Bishop Proudie and Mr. Slope. The family is characterized by heartlessness masked by good nature. Dr. Vesey Stanhope, an absentee clergyman, is a bon vivant indifferent to his clerical duties. Mrs. Stanhope is a beautiful but utterly idle woman. Their elder daughter Charlotte is the capable manager of the household, though her influence has been used to enable the family's indolence and folly. The second daughter, Madeline (Signora Neroni), was a great beauty who married badly and is now a crippled mother. The son Bertie is spoiled and idle. The chapter details their arrival and the dynamics that will shape events in Barchester.
Chapter 10
Mrs. Proudie's Reception—Commenced
The chapter details the return of Bishop and Mrs. Proudie to Barchester after a two-month absence, during which Mr. Slope consolidated a party in their favor. It describes the preparations for Mrs. Proudie's grand reception at the palace, including the careful arrangement of rooms and the guest list. The arrival of the Signora Neroni, carried in by her attendants, creates a sensation, as she takes her place on the reserved sofa, dressed in white velvet and adorned with jewels, captivating the assembled guests.
Chapter 11
Mrs. Proudie's Reception—Concluded
The chapter concludes Mrs. Proudie's grand reception, highlighting the escalating tensions between Mrs. Proudie and Mr. Slope over his attentions to Signora Neroni. Mrs. Proudie's attempts to control Slope fail as he defies her orders to wait on the signora, leading to a direct confrontation. Meanwhile, Bishop Proudie discovers the signora's true identity as Dr. Stanhope's daughter, adding to his discomfort. The evening ends with Mrs. Proudie deeply dissatisfied with the outcome of her party.
Chapter 12
Slope Versus Harding
Mr. Slope meets with Mr. Harding to discuss the terms of the warden's appointment at Hiram's Hospital, imposing new duties and conditions that Mr. Harding ultimately rejects, leading Slope to report the refusal to the bishop and Mrs. Proudie, who then consider Mr. Quiverful as a replacement.
Chapter 13
The Rubbish Cart
Mr. Harding visits his daughter Mrs. Grantly at Plumstead, expressing his distress over Eleanor's growing friendliness with Mr. Slope. Mrs. Grantly warns that Mr. Slope may be courting Eleanor for her fortune, and Mr. Harding fears the prospect of Slope as a son-in-law. Eleanor has agreed to assist Mr. Slope with a Sunday-school project, further alarming her father. Mr. Harding decides to consult the archdeacon, though he dreads the prospect of open warfare.
Chapter 14
The New Champion
Archdeacon Grantly secures Mr. Arabin as the new vicar of St. Ewold's, a strategic move to counter Mr. Slope's influence. He persuades Mr. Harding to resist Slope's conditions for returning to Hiram's Hospital, arguing that Harding must not yield to intimidation. Meanwhile, Mrs. Grantly's remarks about Eleanor Bold's acquaintance with Slope disturb the archdeacon, who reacts with violent disapproval.
Chapter 15
The Widow's Suitors
Mr. Slope learns of Mrs. Bold's fortune from Mr. Quiverful and begins to consider marrying her for her money, while simultaneously the Stanhopes scheme to have Bertie Stanhope court Eleanor for the same reason. The author assures the reader that Eleanor will not marry either suitor.
Chapter 16
Baby Worship
Mr. Slope continues his campaign to win Eleanor Bold and manipulate the hospital appointment. He reveals to Eleanor that Bishop Proudie has offered the hospital to Mr. Quiverful, but suggests that with her help, the offer can be annulled and her father reinstated. Eleanor is distressed but wary of interfering.
Chapter 17
Who Shall Be Cock of the Walk?
Bishop Proudie, feeling emboldened by Mr. Slope's hints of support, attempts to assert his authority over his wife regarding the appointment to Hiram's Hospital. He resolves to reappoint Mr. Harding, but when he broaches the subject with Mrs. Proudie, she firmly insists that the place has been promised to Mr. Quiverful. The bishop's courage falters, and he weakly retreats, mentioning Mr. Slope's concerns about public opinion, which only provokes Mrs. Proudie's ire. Later, Mrs. Proudie confronts Mr. Slope about his conduct with Signora Neroni, warning him to know his place.
Chapter 18
The Widow's Persecution
Mr. Slope meets with the bishop and they form a secret league against Mrs. Proudie, agreeing on Mr. Quiverful's appointment. The archdeacon, angered by the bishop's avoidance, confronts Mr. Harding and Eleanor, suspecting Mr. Slope's intentions toward Eleanor. The archdeacon and Mr. Harding plan to counter Mr. Slope's influence, and Eleanor is invited to Plumstead to remove her from Mr. Slope's attentions.
Chapter 19
Barchester by Moonlight
The Stanhope family, despite their financial and moral troubles, maintain a facade of cheerfulness. During a moonlit walk, Eleanor Bold, Bertie Stanhope, and Charlotte Stanhope discuss astronomy and Mr. Slope's character. Bertie warns Eleanor against Slope, calling him arrogant and false. Later, at the Stanhope home, the signora engages Slope in private conversation while Eleanor enjoys Bertie's company, leaving her impressed with the family.
Chapter 20
Mr. Arabin
This chapter provides an interior and exterior portrait of Mr. Arabin, detailing his past temptation to convert to Roman Catholicism, his retreat to Cornwall where a humble curate taught him the importance of inner moral duty, his return to Oxford and rise as a staunch High Churchman under Dr. Gwynne's patronage, and his arrival at Plumstead Episcopi where the Grantly family—especially Mrs. Grantly and the young daughters—form mixed first impressions of him.
Chapter 21
St. Ewold’s Parsonage
Mr. Harding and Mrs. Bold arrive at the rectory, where the archdeacon and Mr. Arabin are inspecting St. Ewold's church. Mrs. Grantly and Eleanor discuss Mr. Slope, with Mrs. Grantly suspecting Eleanor's attachment to him. The party later visits the parsonage at St. Ewold, where Eleanor and Mr. Arabin engage in a conversation about clerical conflict and the nature of the church militant.
Chapter 22
The Thornes of Ullathorne
Mr. Arabin is to read himself in at St. Ewold's on Sunday, with the archdeacon assisting and Mr. Harding taking the archdeacon's duty. Mrs. Bold accompanies them, and they plan to lunch at the squire's house. The chapter introduces Wilfred Thorne, the bachelor squire of Ullathorne, a man proud of his lineage and devoted to old English literature and genealogy. His sister, Miss Thorne, is an elegant old woman who romanticizes the past and dresses richly. The chapter also describes the Tudor architecture of Ullathorne Court, its interior, and the beauty of its exterior, especially its aged stone color.
Chapter 23
Mr. Arabin Reads Himself in at St. Ewold's
Mr. Arabin, accompanied by the Archdeacon and Eleanor Bold, travels to Ullathorne to be formally installed as the new vicar of St. Ewold's. Despite his nervousness and self-doubt about facing his new parishioners, he successfully reads the lessons and preaches his first sermon. The Archdeacon later preaches a sermon comparing his selection of Arabin to St. Paul's sending of Onesimus. The chapter concludes with the group returning to Plumstead after a day of church services and social interaction with the Thornes.
Chapter 24
Mr. Slope Manages Matters Very Cleverly at Puddingdale
Mr. Slope visits Mr. Quiverful at Puddingdale to secure his support for Mr. Harding's appointment to Hiram's Hospital, playing on Quiverful's desperate need for income. Meanwhile, at Plumstead, Eleanor grows irritated by Mr. Arabin's attention to Signora Neroni at a party, though she herself enjoys Bertie Stanhope's company. The archdeacon continues to oppose the bishop's plans, while Mr. Slope maneuvers against Mrs. Proudie's influence.
Chapter 25
XXV: Fourteen Arguments in Favour of Mr. Quiverful's Claims
Mrs. Quiverful learns from her husband that Mr. Slope has convinced him to resign his claim to the warden's position, leading her to take decisive action. She walks to Barchester, borrows a farmer's cart, and goes to the bishop's palace to confront Mrs. Proudie, arguing that her fourteen children deserve the appointment.
Chapter 26
Mrs. Proudie Wrestles and Gets a Fall
Mrs. Proudie confronts her husband and Mr. Slope over the hospital appointment, but is outmaneuvered when Slope convinces the bishop to write to the archbishop accepting an invitation and to nominate Mr. Harding instead. After a tense scene, Mrs. Proudie is forced to leave the room, but later reassures Mrs. Quiverful that she will fight for her husband's claim.
Chapter 27
A Love Scene
Mr. Slope, feeling triumphant after his maneuvering at the palace, writes a letter to Eleanor Bold about the wardenship of the hospital and his hopes for reconciliation with her father. He then visits Signora Neroni, who skillfully manipulates him, extracting a declaration of love and teasing him about his supposed courtship of Eleanor. The chapter ends with Mr. Slope ensnared in the Signora's game.
Chapter 28
Mrs. Bold Is Entertained by Dr. and Mrs. Grantly at Plumstead
Mr. Slope's letter to Eleanor Bold is intercepted by Archdeacon Grantly, who reacts with outrage and suspicion. The letter is eventually given to Mr. Harding, who reads it and finds it contains Mr. Slope's proposal for Eleanor and news about the hospital. Eleanor, unaware of the uproar, feels judged by the Grantlys and Mr. Arabin at dinner. She later shows the letter to her father, who is pained by her lack of disgust, leading to a tense family situation.
Chapter 29
A Serious Interview
Eleanor Bold, determined to return to Barchester after a quarrel with Archdeacon Grantly over Mr. Slope's letter, refuses to discuss the matter with her father. The archdeacon confronts Eleanor about the letter, accusing her of improper correspondence with Mr. Slope, but she defends her actions and criticizes his prejudice. The interview leaves both parties angry and unresolved, with Eleanor resolved to leave Plumstead and the archdeacon convinced she intends to marry Mr. Slope.
Chapter 30
Another Love Scene
Mr. Arabin, troubled by the rumor that Eleanor Bold will marry Mr. Slope, realizes he is in love with her. He returns early to Plumstead and confronts Eleanor, who is angry at his earlier suspicions. They walk in the garden, where Arabin struggles to express his true feelings, and Eleanor remains hurt and defiant.
Chapter 31
The Bishop's Library
The pleasant party at Plumstead breaks up as Eleanor returns to Barchester, where she learns of the dean's apoplexy. The archdeacon and other clergy gather in the bishop's library, discussing the dean's condition and speculating about his successor, with Mr. Slope's name causing consternation. Sir Omicron Pie is summoned, and the dean lingers between life and death.
Chapter 32
A New Candidate for Ecclesiastical Honours
Mr. Slope maneuvers to secure the deanery for himself after Dr. Trefoil's apoplexy, persuading Bishop Proudie to support his candidacy while conceding the Hiram's Hospital appointment to Mr. Quiverful. Meanwhile, the bishop's domestic struggle with Mrs. Proudie continues, and Mr. Slope writes letters to influential figures to advance his cause.
Chapter 33
Mrs. Proudie Victrix
The chapter describes the apparent tranquility in Barchester as the old dean lingers on, while Mr. Slope awaits replies to his letters. Eleanor Bold grows closer to the Stanhopes, especially Charlotte and Bertie, though she remains innocent of Charlotte's schemes to entrap her into a marriage with Bertie. Eleanor avoids Mr. Slope but is forced to ride with him to the Ullathorne party. Meanwhile, Bishop Proudie returns home to a surprisingly affectionate welcome from Mrs. Proudie, who has softened her tactics after securing her dominance over Mr. Slope. She begins to probe the bishop about filling the dean's place, reasserting her control.
Chapter 34
Oxford—The Master and Tutor of Lazarus
Mr. Arabin, after a melancholy walk in Plumstead churchyard, resolves that he is too old for love and that Eleanor Bold does not care for him. He forces himself to appear cheerful at dinner, while Mr. Harding is distressed and the Archdeacon is gloomy over the possibility of Mr. Slope becoming Dean. Mr. Arabin then travels to Oxford to consult Dr. Gwynne, the Master of Lazarus, and his tutor Tom Staple about the ecclesiastical crisis. They discuss the hospital appointment, Mr. Slope's machinations, and the need to outmaneuver the bishop.
Chapter 35
Miss Thorne's Fête Champêtre
The day of Miss Thorne's grand party at Ullathorne arrives, with preparations overseen by the steward Mr. Plomacy. The chapter details the social dynamics among the guests, including Mr. Slope's triumphant mood over his potential deanery and his intentions toward Eleanor Bold, as well as the organization of the festivities for both the quality and the non-quality. Miss Thorne's attachment to traditional sports like the quintain is contrasted with Mr. Thorne's reluctance, and the challenges of managing uninvited guests are highlighted.
Chapter 36
Ullathorne Sports—Act I
Eleanor Bold confronts her father, Mr. Harding, about his belief that she intends to marry Mr. Slope, vehemently denying any such intention and expressing her disgust for Slope. Mr. Harding, relieved, apologizes and promises never to suspect her again. The chapter then shifts to the Ullathorne sports gathering, where various guests arrive, including the Lookalofts, the Grantlys, Dr. Gwynne, and the Stanhopes. Eleanor arrives with Mr. Slope, causing Mr. Arabin to observe them with dismay. The Proudies also make a grand entrance, and the festivities begin.
Chapter 37
The Signora Neroni, the Countess de Courcy, and Mrs. Proudie Meet Each Other at Ullathorne
At the Ullathorne fête, the Signora Neroni captivates Mr. Thorne and Mr. Arabin from her sofa, while Mrs. Proudie and Lady De Courcy bond over their mutual disdain for her. Mrs. Proudie recounts the Signora's scandalous history, including her one leg and her corrupting influence on Mr. Slope. Meanwhile, Eleanor Bold, trying to avoid Mr. Slope, accepts Bertie Stanhope's arm, and Charlotte Stanhope schemes to bring Bertie and Eleanor together.
Chapter 38
The Bishop Sits Down to Breakfast, and the Dean Dies
Mr. Arabin, distressed by seeing Eleanor Bold arrive with Mr. Slope, is confronted by Archdeacon Grantly, who condemns her behavior. The Signora Neroni, intuiting Arabin's love for Eleanor, engages him in a flirtatious conversation, extracting his admiration for both women. She resolves to help him if Bertie Stanhope fails to win Eleanor. Meanwhile, Miss Thorne fusses over Arabin's lack of food.
Chapter 39
The Lookalofts and the Greenacres
The chapter explores the social tensions and class envy between the Greenacres and the Lookalofts during Miss Thorne's grand fête. Mrs. Greenacre, through gossip with Mrs. Guffern, learns that the Lookalofts have been admitted to the drawing-room with the quality, causing her resentment and indignation. Farmer Greenacre offers a more philosophical perspective, urging contentment. Meanwhile, Mr. Plomacy maintains order among the rural guests, expelling an uninvited plasterer. The chapter concludes with speeches and toasts in the tent and dining-room, highlighting the contrast between the lively, less decorous tent and the more proper but duller dining-room.
Chapter 40
Ullathorne Sports—Act II
Mr. Slope, emboldened by wine, pursues Eleanor Bold into the garden to declare his love. Eleanor, realizing his intentions, tries to dismiss him coldly, but Mr. Slope persists, making an impassioned proposal. When he attempts to seize her hand, Eleanor slaps him and runs away. Mr. Slope, humiliated and enraged, vows revenge and struggles with his own sense of sin and worldly corruption.
Chapter 41
Mrs. Bold Confides Her Sorrow to Her Friend Miss Stanhope
Eleanor Bold, distressed after Mr. Slope's inappropriate advances at Miss Thorne's party, confides in Charlotte Stanhope. Charlotte devises a plan to protect Eleanor from further harassment by arranging for Bertie Stanhope to escort her back to Barchester, while also maneuvering to advance Bertie's courtship of Eleanor.
Chapter 42
Ullathorne Sports—Act III
Bertie Stanhope, under pressure from his sister Charlotte, awkwardly proposes to Eleanor Bold, revealing that his courtship is driven by financial motives rather than genuine affection. Eleanor, feeling insulted and disillusioned, rejects him. Meanwhile, Mr. Slope's earlier misconduct is discussed, and Bertie is enlisted to escort Eleanor home after Slope's departure.
Chapter 43
Mr. and Mrs. Quiverful Are Made Happy. Mr. Slope Is Encouraged by the Press
Mrs. Proudie ensures the Quiverfuls receive letters summoning them to the palace, confirming Mr. Quiverful's appointment to Hiram's Hospital. The Quiverfuls rejoice. Meanwhile, Dr. Gwynne visits the bishop to discuss business but is confronted by Mrs. Proudie's overbearing presence. The chapter also includes a newspaper article praising the reform of Hiram's Hospital, announcing Mr. Quiverful's acceptance of the wardenship, and noting the death of Dean Trefoil.
Chapter 44
Mrs. Bold at Home
After returning from Miss Thorne's party, Eleanor Bold is deeply distressed and confides in Mary Bold about Mr. Slope's unwanted advances and the Stanhopes' scheme to secure her fortune for Bertie. She finds solace only in her baby, Johnny, and later discusses the dean's death and Mr. Quiverful's appointment to the hospital with her father, Mr. Harding.
Chapter 45
The Stanhopes at Home
After returning from Ullathorne, the Stanhope family deals with the fallout of Bertie's failed courtship of Eleanor Bold. Dr. Stanhope angrily confronts Charlotte, blaming her and Bertie for the debacle. Meanwhile, Signora Neroni has a private conversation with Eleanor, revealing that Mr. Arabin is deeply in love with her and advising her to act decisively. Eleanor leaves the Stanhope home in a state of emotional turmoil, torn between mortification and joy.
Chapter 46
Mr. Slope's Parting Interview with the Signora
In this chapter, the Signora Neroni holds court in her drawing room, attracting several gentlemen including Mr. Arabin, Mr. Slope, and Mr. Thorne. The Signora, aware of Mr. Slope's romantic ambitions toward Eleanor Bold and his pursuit of the deanery, publicly taunts and humiliates him, mocking his courtship and aspirations. Mr. Slope, unable to defend himself, is left discomfited and resentful, while Mr. Arabin observes the scene with mixed feelings.
Chapter 47
The Dean Elect
The chapter details the uncertainty in Barchester over who will be the new dean, with Mr. Slope's chances fluctuating. At Plumstead, Archdeacon Grantly is distressed by Mr. Quiverful's appointment to the hospital, Mr. Harding's refusal to contest it, Mr. Slope's potential success, and Mr. Arabin's rumored misconduct with Signora Neroni. Mr. Harding arrives unexpectedly, having received an offer of the deanery, but he hesitates to accept, feeling unqualified, much to the archdeacon's frustration.
Chapter 48
Miss Thorne Shows Her Talent at Matchmaking
Miss Thorne, hearing rumors about Mr. Arabin, decides to match him with Eleanor Bold. She invites Eleanor to Ullathorne and arranges for Mr. Arabin to visit. Despite initial awkwardness, the two quickly become engaged, surprising Miss Thorne with the speed of their romance.
Chapter 49
The Beelzebub Colt
Eleanor Bold reveals her engagement to Mr. Arabin to Miss Thorne. The next morning, she and Mr. Arabin have a private moment together, affirming their love. Mr. Harding visits Eleanor and tells her he has been offered the deanery, but he begins to think Mr. Arabin should be dean instead.
Chapter 50
The Archdeacon Is Satisfied with the State of Affairs
The archdeacon, initially skeptical, learns of Eleanor Bold's engagement to Mr. Arabin and becomes reconciled to the match, expressing his approval and planning the wedding. He also encounters Mr. Slope and Mrs. Quiverful, showing his changed mood.
Chapter 51
Mr. Slope Bids Farewell to the Palace and Its Inhabitants
Mr. Slope, having lost the deanship and been outmaneuvered by Mrs. Proudie, prepares to leave Barchester. He writes to a wealthy widow in London, then confronts the bishop and Mrs. Proudie, who accuse him of improper conduct with Signora Neroni. After a heated exchange, Mr. Slope departs, eventually finding comfort and a new living in London. The bishop resigns himself to domestic subservience, and Mrs. Proudie remains triumphant.
Chapter 52
The New Dean Takes Possession of the Deanery, and the New Warden of the Hospital
Mr. Harding and Archdeacon Grantly travel to Oxford to enlist the Master of Lazarus in securing the deanery for Mr. Arabin. After a week of lobbying in London, their efforts succeed, and Mr. Arabin is appointed Dean of Barchester. Mr. Harding then introduces Mr. Quiverful as the new warden of Hiram's Hospital, walking arm-in-arm with him to ease the transition and ensure the bedesmen's respect.
Chapter 53
Conclusion
The final chapter resolves the fates of the principal characters. Eleanor marries Mr. Arabin, who becomes Dean of Barchester, and they settle into a happy life at the deanery. Mrs. Grantly and Eleanor maintain a close but doctrinally distinct relationship, with Eleanor leaning toward High Church practices. The archdeacon celebrates his triumph over Mr. Slope with lavish gifts. Mr. Slope is dismissed and fades from power; the Stanhopes return to Italy; and Mr. Harding remains a humble, good precentor. The chapter concludes with a peaceful ecclesiastical order in Barchester, with the Proudies largely leaving the dean and chapter alone.
