Evelina · Chapter
Letter LXVI: Evelina in Continuation explained
Evelina encounters Mr.
What happens
Evelina encounters Mr. Macartney early in the morning, who has traveled to Clifton to thank her for her past kindness and to repay a debt. Their meeting is interrupted by Lord Orville, who becomes visibly disturbed by the interaction. Evelina struggles with her promise to Lord Orville to explain the matter versus her duty to keep Mr. Macartney's secrets. She writes a note to Mr. Macartney excusing herself from a planned meeting, but the note is not delivered. The next morning, she finds Lord Orville waiting at the garden gate, leading to a tense and awkward exchange. Lord Orville eventually assists her back to the house, but the misunderstanding remains unresolved.
Themes in this chapter
Virtue and Reputation
Evelina is deeply concerned about maintaining her reputation and Lord Orville's good opinion. Her secret meeting with Mr. Macartney and the subsequent misunderstanding threaten her perceived virtue.
Love and Courtship
Lord Orville's jealousy and concern for Evelina's actions reveal his deepening feelings. The chapter explores the complications and misunderstandings that arise in courtship.
Guardianship and Paternalism
Evelina wishes for the counsel of her guardian, Rev. Mr. Villars, to guide her through the moral dilemma. She ultimately resolves to act as she believes he would advise, showing her reliance on paternal guidance.
Characters to notice
- Evelina Anville
Evelina is conflicted between her promise to Lord Orville and her duty to keep Mr. Macartney's secrets. She attempts to manage the situation with discretion but becomes increasingly distressed by Lord Orville's apparent suspicion.
- Lord Orville
Lord Orville is visibly disturbed by Evelina's secret meeting with Mr. Macartney. He confronts her with restrained dignity, but his concern and jealousy are evident. He ultimately assists her when she appears unwell.
- Mr. Macartney
Mr. Macartney has traveled to Clifton to thank Evelina and repay a debt. He appears improved in health but still melancholy. He is unaware of the complications his visit causes.
- Mrs. Selwyn
Mrs. Selwyn questions Evelina about her acquaintance with Mr. Macartney and expresses severe disapproval, calling the affair 'romantic' and suspecting Mr. Macartney of being an adventurer and impostor.
Key passages
“The interest you so generously took in my affliction, added he, assures me you will not be displeased to hear of my better fortune; I was therefore eager to acquaint you with it.”
Mr. Macartney explains that because Evelina showed such kindness during his troubles, he is eager to share his improved circumstances with her.
Mr. Macartney expresses gratitude and a desire to keep Evelina informed of his improved fortunes.
“Desirous as I am of the good opinion of Lord Orville, I will endeavour to act as if I was guided by your advice; and, making it my sole aim to deserve it, leave to time and to fate my success or disappointment.”
Evelina resolves to act as she believes her guardian would advise, prioritizing deserving Lord Orville's good opinion over immediate explanation.
Evelina decides to follow her guardian's imagined counsel, trusting that time will resolve the misunderstanding.
“I know not how to apologize for being, just now, at this place;—and I cannot, immediately—if ever —clear myself from the imputation of impertinent curiosity, to which I fear you will attribute it: however, at present, I will only entreat your pardon, without detaining you any longer.”
Lord Orville awkwardly apologizes for being at the garden gate, acknowledging that his presence might seem like prying, and asks for pardon without further explanation.
Lord Orville's discomfort and sense of impropriety are evident as he tries to excuse his presence at the garden gate.