# The New Usher explained — Dr. Wortle’s School

> Chapter companion for Dr. Wortle’s School by Anthony Trollope.

## What happens

The chapter introduces Mr. Peacocke, the new usher at Dr. Wortle's school, and his wife. Despite their growing friendship with the Wortles, the Peacockes refuse all social invitations, citing their unique position. An incident where Mr. Peacocke saves young De Lawle from drowning strengthens the bond. Mrs. Peacocke's refusal of a gift from a Marchioness and her isolation from society fuel rumors, particularly from Mrs. Stantiloup, hinting at a mysterious past.

## Themes in this chapter

### Social Reputation and Scandal

The Peacockes' refusal to socialize and their mysterious past create a breeding ground for scandal, as seen in Mrs. Stantiloup's insinuations.

### Class and Privilege

Mrs. Peacocke's rejection of the Marchioness's gift highlights the complexities of class and the dignity of earned income versus charity.

### Loyalty and Friendship

The friendship between Dr. Wortle and Mr. Peacocke deepens through the rescue of young De Lawle, showing loyalty beyond social conventions.

## Character check-ins

### Mr. Peacocke

The new usher, a scholar and preacher, who maintains a deliberate social distance despite his growing friendship with Dr. Wortle.

### Mrs. Peacocke

A beautiful and capable woman who refuses social engagements and gifts, insisting on her unique position, which fuels local speculation.

### Dr. Wortle

The headmaster, who becomes intimate with Mr. Peacocke and is frustrated by the Peacockes' refusal to socialize, yet trusts him implicitly.

### Mrs. Wortle

The doctor's wife, who attempts to befriend Mrs. Peacocke and is present during the cliff accident involving young De Lawle.

### Mrs. Stantiloup

A gossip who spreads rumors about the Peacockes, suggesting there is something 'rotten' about their past.

### Lady De Lawle

A widow whose son, Jack, is saved by Mr. Peacocke, leading to a strengthening of the friendship between the families.

## Key lines

> He had fallen into a position in which neither he nor his wife could give anything, and from which, though some might be willing to accept him, he would be accepted only, as it were, by special favour.

Mr. Peacocke felt that he and his wife were in a situation where they could not offer anything in return for hospitality, and any acceptance would be seen as a favor.

_Explains the Peacockes' refusal to socialize._

> It is so natural that you should do this, because you cannot of course understand my position; but it is altogether out of the question.

Mrs. Peacocke politely declines the Marchioness's money, explaining that the offer is understandable but impossible for her to accept.

_Shows Mrs. Peacocke's pride and sense of propriety._

> I would just as soon have offered the money to the Marchioness herself.

Mrs. Wortle says she would have been equally likely to offer money to the Marchioness, implying the absurdity of the gift.

_Highlights the social awkwardness and Mrs. Peacocke's unusual stance._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/dr_wortle_s_school_se/chapters/part-i-ii-the-new-usher
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/dr_wortle_s_school_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/dr_wortle_s_school_se/chapters