Can You Forgive Her? · Chapter
XXX: Containing a Love Letter explained
George Vavasor reflects on Alice's past words about love and duty, contemplates his own Bohemian views on marriage, and decides to write a letter proposing to Alice.
What happens
George Vavasor reflects on Alice's past words about love and duty, contemplates his own Bohemian views on marriage, and decides to write a letter proposing to Alice. He sends the letter on Christmas Eve after a coin toss, then spends Christmas Day collecting money for Burgo Fitzgerald from a moneylender.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Marriage
George Vavasor's internal conflict about marriage as a 'Siamese twin' bond versus his desire for Alice, and his proposal letter.
Duty vs. Desire
Alice's past insistence on Glencora's duty to keep her promise contrasts with George's desire for independence and his proposal.
Wealth and Financial Dependence
George's financial struggles, his reliance on Alice's money, and his transaction with Mr. Magruin for Burgo's bill.
Characters to notice
- George Vavasor
Sits alone contemplating marriage, writes a love letter to Alice, and later collects money for Burgo Fitzgerald.
- Alice Vavasor
Recalled in George's memory for her past stance on love and duty; recipient of George's proposal letter.
- Kate Vavasor
Mentioned in George's recollection of a past conversation about Alice's views on Glencora's promise.
- Burgo Fitzgerald
Sends a note to George about a bill and money collection; George collects funds on his behalf.
- John Grey
Referenced as the man Alice broke her engagement with, and as a rival George wishes to best.
Key passages
“If a woman won't venture her fortune for the man she loves, her love is not worth having.”
Alice argued that a woman who refuses to risk her wealth for the man she loves does not truly love him.
George recalls Alice's earlier words as he considers her willingness to support him financially.
“It is a thing terrible to think of, that a man should give permission to a priest to tie him to another human being like a Siamese twin, so that all power of separate and solitary action should be taken from him forever!”
George views marriage as a horrifying loss of independence, comparing it to being physically bound to another person.
Reflects George's Bohemian philosophy and his reluctance to marry despite proposing to Alice.
“I'll bet two to one that she gives way. Women are such out-and-out fools.”
George confidently predicts Alice will accept his proposal, dismissing women as foolish.
Shows George's cynical view of women and his manipulative approach to the proposal.