# Chapter 72 explained — Barnaby Rudge

> Chapter companion for Barnaby Rudge by Charles Dickens.

## What happens

Dolly Varden, still reeling from the recent riots, arrives at the Black Lion inn with her parents, where they are reunited with Edward Chester and Joe Willet. Old John Willet struggles to comprehend his son's lost arm, repeatedly confirming the fact with slow, comical deliberation. Later, alone with Dolly, Joe confesses his enduring love, but accepts his poverty and disability, blessing her and leaving her to reflect on her newfound feelings.

## Themes in this chapter

### Parental Love and Sacrifice

Old John Willet's bewildered but persistent attention to Joe's injury reflects a father's love struggling to accept his son's sacrifice.

### Freedom and Imprisonment

Dolly's emotional release and Joe's return from war symbolize freedom from the chaos of the riots, yet Joe is now 'imprisoned' by his disability and poverty.

## Character check-ins

### Dolly Varden

Emotionally overwhelmed by the reunion and Joe's confession, she realizes her true feelings for him.

### Joe Willet

Returns from war maimed but noble, declaring his love for Dolly while accepting his fate.

### John Willet

Comically slow to comprehend Joe's lost arm, repeatedly confirming the fact with bewilderment.

### Gabriel Varden

Comforts Dolly, assuring her they are safe and will not be separated again.

### Mrs. Varden

Shown as an altered woman, adding her words of comfort to Dolly.

### Edward Chester

Present at the reunion, having followed in another coach.

## Key lines

> It's been took off!

His arm has been amputated.

_Old John Willet finally comprehends Joe's lost arm._

> At the defence of the Savannah, father.

I lost it while defending Savannah.

_Joe explains where he lost his arm._

> I shall bless your name as long as I live.

I will always remember you with gratitude.

_Dolly expresses her deep appreciation to Joe._

> I would rather have lost this other arm—ay, I would rather have lost my head—than have come back to find you dead, or anything but what I always pictured you to myself.

I would rather lose my other arm or even my life than find you changed for the worse.

_Joe declares his love and relief that Dolly is safe._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/barnaby_rudge_se/chapters/chapter-72
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/barnaby_rudge_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/barnaby_rudge_se/chapters