Barnaby Rudge · Chapter
Chapter 20 explained
Dolly Varden visits Emma Haredale at the Warren, delivering a letter from Edward Chester.
What happens
Dolly Varden visits Emma Haredale at the Warren, delivering a letter from Edward Chester. Emma reads the long letter with distress, and Dolly stays for dinner and helps write a reply. Before leaving, Dolly is confronted by Mr. Haredale, who questions her about the letter. Dolly bravely refuses to surrender it, and Mr. Haredale, impressed by her firmness, offers her a position as Emma's companion. Dolly declines to answer immediately and leaves, feeling triumphant. On her way home, she becomes aware of a mysterious rustling in the hedges, suggesting she is being followed.
Themes in this chapter
Innocence and Corruption
Dolly's innocent coquettishness contrasts with the serious, somber atmosphere of the Warren, and her playful nature is set against the underlying tension of the secret correspondence.
Manipulation and Exploitation
Mr. Haredale's questioning of Dolly and his offer of a companion position can be seen as a subtle attempt to control or influence the situation between Emma and Edward.
Characters to notice
- Dolly Varden
Acts as a messenger between Emma and Edward, shows her coquettish nature, and bravely stands up to Mr. Haredale.
- Emma Haredale
Receives a long letter from Edward, is visibly distressed, and gives Dolly a bracelet as a keepsake.
- Mr. Geoffrey Haredale
Confronts Dolly about the letter, tests her loyalty, and offers her a position as Emma's companion.
- Edward Chester
Writes a long, emotional letter to Emma, which is the central object of the chapter.
Key passages
“The proud consciousness of her trust, and the great importance she derived from it, might have advertised it to all the house if she had had to run the gauntlet of its inhabitants;”
Dolly felt so important carrying the letter that she might as well have announced it to everyone if she had to pass through the whole house.
Highlights Dolly's pride in her role as messenger.
“I commend your firmness and your plain-speaking. Rest assured that I have as little desire to take your letter as your life.”
I admire your bravery and honesty. I have no intention of taking your letter or harming you.
Mr. Haredale's unexpected response to Dolly's defiance.