# VII: Robert Lefroy explained — Dr. Wortle’s School

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

## What happens

Robert Lefroy, the brother of the man who claims to be Mrs. Peacocke's true husband, arrives at Bowick and confronts Mr. Peacocke. He attempts to blackmail him, but Peacocke refuses to pay. Lefroy then leaves to tell his story to Dr. Wortle, while Peacocke resolves to stick to his planned confession.

## Themes in this chapter

### Social Reputation and Scandal

The threat of scandal and the power of secrets to destroy reputations are central to the confrontation between Peacocke and Lefroy.

### Moral Hypocrisy

Lefroy's attempt to profit from the Peacockes' secret while presenting himself as a wronged party highlights the hypocrisy of those who exploit others' misfortunes.

### Integrity and Conscience

Mr. Peacocke's refusal to pay blackmail and his determination to confess to Dr. Wortle demonstrate his commitment to integrity over self-preservation.

## Character check-ins

### Mr. Peacocke

Confronted by Robert Lefroy, refuses to be blackmailed, and remains resolute in his plan to confess to Dr. Wortle.

### Robert Lefroy

Arrives at Bowick, attempts to extort money from Mr. Peacocke, and leaves to tell his version of the story to Dr. Wortle.

### Mrs. Peacocke

Kept hidden from Lefroy, but her presence and the threat to her reputation are central to the confrontation.

### Dr. Wortle

Mentioned as the school's owner and the person to whom Lefroy intends to tell his story.

## Key lines

> Are you my brother-in-law, or are you not? You call her Mrs. Peacocke, eh?

Lefroy questions the legitimacy of Peacocke's marriage, challenging his claim to be Mrs. Peacocke's husband.

_This highlights the central conflict of the chapter: the disputed marital status and its implications._

> You will make no money of me.

Peacocke firmly rejects Lefroy's blackmail attempt, showing his refusal to be coerced.

_Demonstrates Peacocke's integrity and moral stance against extortion._

> Go and tell it to all the world.

Peacocke challenges Lefroy to spread the story publicly, showing his willingness to face the consequences.

_Reflects Peacocke's resolve to confront the truth rather than hide it._

## Links

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- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/dr_wortle_s_school_se/chapters