# John Grey Goes a Second Time to London explained — Can You Forgive Her?

> Chapter companion for Can You Forgive Her? by Anthony Trollope.

## What happens

Alice writes to John Grey to inform him of her engagement to George Vavasor, causing him intense pain. Grey travels to London, consults with Mr. Vavasor, and resolves to try to prevent the marriage, even considering buying off George Vavasor. He writes to Alice and arranges a meeting.

## Themes in this chapter

### Self-Deception and Moral Growth

Alice realizes too late the true worth of John Grey and the folly of her choice, experiencing deep regret and self-awareness.

### Wealth and Financial Dependence

George Vavasor's pursuit of Alice's fortune is central; Grey offers to let George have her money to free her from the marriage.

### Betrayal and Forgiveness

Alice's letter breaks her engagement to Grey, yet Grey's response is one of selfless concern for her welfare rather than anger.

## Character check-ins

### Alice Vavasor

Struggles to write the letter to John Grey breaking off their engagement, feeling deep regret and self-reproach.

### John Grey

Receives Alice's letter at Nethercoats, experiences intense agony, but resolves to go to London to try to prevent her marriage to George Vavasor.

### George Vavasor

Mentioned as the man Alice has accepted; Grey and Mr. Vavasor discuss his character and financial ruin.

### Mr. John Vavasor

Meets with John Grey in London, expresses his powerlessness to prevent Alice from giving her fortune to George, and is moved by Grey's devotion.

### Kate Vavasor

Mentioned as having been near Alice and comforting her when she wrote to George.

## Key lines

> It is right that I should tell you at once that my cousin, George Vavasor, has repeated to me his offer of marriage, and that I have accepted it.

Alice writes to John Grey to inform him that she has accepted George Vavasor's proposal.

_This is the central action of the chapter, prompting Grey's journey to London._

> Let him have every shilling of her fortune tomorrow. And what is she to do then? Then—then—then—then let her come to me.

John Grey tells Mr. Vavasor that he would still welcome Alice even if she gives all her money to George.

_Demonstrates Grey's unconditional love and selflessness._

## Links

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