# Chapter 80 explained — Barnaby Rudge

> Chapter companion for Barnaby Rudge by Charles Dickens.

## What happens

In this chapter, the Varden household is filled with joy and celebration as Dolly and Joe Willet return from their walk, and the family enjoys a merry tea together. The locksmith, Gabriel Varden, is in high spirits, and the couple's happiness is evident. However, Miss Miggs, the maid, becomes upset and decides to leave the household, feeling that her services are no longer appreciated. Despite Mrs. Varden's initial anger, the locksmith gives Miggs a banknote as a parting gift, and she departs with her nephew, leaving the family to their joyful reunion.

## Themes in this chapter

### Parental Love and Sacrifice

Gabriel Varden's good-humored and forgiving nature towards his wife and Miggs highlights the theme of parental love and sacrifice.

### Social Injustice and Class

The interaction between the Vardens and their servant Miggs touches on class dynamics and the treatment of servants.

## Character check-ins

### Gabriel Varden

The locksmith is in a cheerful mood, enjoying the company of his family and the happiness of Dolly and Joe.

### Mrs. Varden

She is initially upset by Miggs's behavior but later joins in the laughter and celebration.

### Dolly Varden

She is happy and blushing, enjoying her time with Joe and the family.

### Joe Willet

He is present with Dolly, and the couple's relationship is celebrated by the family.

### Miss Miggs

She becomes upset and decides to leave the household, feeling unappreciated.

## Key lines

> It’s a thing to laugh at, Martha, not to care for,” whispered the locksmith, as he followed his wife to the window, and good-humouredly dried her eyes. “What does it matter? You had seen your fault before. Come! Bring up Toby again, my dear; Dolly shall sing us a song; and we’ll be all the merrier for this interruption!”

The locksmith comforted his wife, saying it was not worth worrying about, and suggested they enjoy the evening with Dolly singing and a drink.

_Gabriel Varden's good-natured response to the earlier incident shows his forgiving and cheerful character._

> To think,” cried Miggs with hysterical joy, “that Mr. Joe, and dear Miss Dolly, has raly come together after all as has been said and done contrairy!

Miggs expressed her joy that Joe and Dolly had finally gotten together despite all the obstacles.

_Miggs's reaction highlights her emotional investment in the household's affairs._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/barnaby_rudge_se/chapters/chapter-80
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/barnaby_rudge_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/barnaby_rudge_se/chapters