Evelina · Chapter
Letter XLIV: Evelina in Continuation explained
Evelina endures a vulgar dinner with the Branghtons, who discuss their lodger Mr.
What happens
Evelina endures a vulgar dinner with the Branghtons, who discuss their lodger Mr. Macartney with mercenary cynicism. Mr. Smith arrives and displays his pretentious gallantry, and the group quizzes Evelina on London sights she has not seen, then takes her to the theatre.
Themes in this chapter
Social Class and Manners
The Branghtons' vulgarity and Mr. Smith's pretentious gallantry contrast sharply with Evelina's refined sensibility, highlighting class distinctions.
Satire of Society
The chapter satirizes the Branghtons' mercenary attitudes, Mr. Smith's affected politeness, and the provincial ignorance of London's fashionable entertainments.
Characters to notice
- Evelina Anville
Narrates the chapter, observing the Branghtons' coarse behavior and Mr. Smith's affected manners.
- Mr. Branghton
Discusses his lodger's debt and ring, revealing his mercenary and unscrupulous nature.
- Miss Polly Branghton
Participates in the conversation about the lodger and later comments on Mr. Smith's airs.
- Mr. Smith
Displays his pretentious gallantry, separates the ladies, and proposes an outing to the theatre.
- Madame Duval
Present at the dinner, briefly interjects to ask about the lodger's behavior.
Key passages
“Mr. Branghton said, that his first thought was instantly to turn his lodger out of doors, "Lest," continued he, "his killing himself in my house should bring me into any trouble: but then I was afraid I should never get the money that he owes me; whereas, if he dies in my house, I have a right to all he leaves behind him, if he goes off in my debt."”
Mr. Branghton admits he considered evicting his lodger to avoid legal trouble, but decided against it because he could claim the man's belongings if he died in debt.
Reveals the Branghtons' ruthless and self-serving morality.
“"Come," cried he, advancing to us, "you ladies must not sit together; wherever I go I always make it a rule to part the ladies." And then, handing Miss Branghton to the next chair, he seated himself between us.”
Mr. Smith interrupts the ladies' seating arrangement, positioning himself between them as a show of gallantry.
Illustrates Mr. Smith's affected and formulaic manners.
“"Pray, Miss," said Polly, "have you been all over Paul's Church yet?" "No, Ma'am." "Well, but, Ma'am," said Mr. Smith, "how do you like Vauxhall and Marybone?" "I never saw either, Sir." "No—God bless me!—you really surprise me—why Vauxhall is the first pleasure in life!—I know nothing like it."”
The Branghtons and Mr. Smith quiz Evelina on London sights, expressing shock that she has not visited St. Paul's, Vauxhall, or Marybone.
Highlights the provincialism and social one-upmanship of the group.