# Letter XXXII: Evelina to the Rev. Mr. Villars explained — Evelina

> Chapter companion for Evelina by Fanny Burney.

## What happens

Evelina writes to Mr. Villars from Howard Grove, describing the arrival of Sir Clement Willoughby and his flattering attentions. She conceals her unease about Lord Orville, while Captain Mirvan eagerly plots a scheme against Madame Duval.

## Themes in this chapter

### Satire of Society

Captain Mirvan's crude delight in tormenting Madame Duval and Sir Clement's exaggerated flattery satirize both country and town manners.

### Love and Courtship

Evelina's concealed unease about Lord Orville and Sir Clement's persistent attentions highlight the tensions of courtship.

## Character check-ins

### Evelina Anville

Narrates the letter; conceals her anxiety about Lord Orville and endures Sir Clement's advances.

### Sir Clement Willoughby

Arrives unexpectedly at Howard Grove; flatters Evelina and Miss Mirvan, and joins Captain Mirvan's scheme.

### Miss Mirvan

Accompanies Evelina on a walk and is greeted by Sir Clement.

### Captain Mirvan

Welcomes Sir Clement boisterously and plots a scheme against Madame Duval.

### Madame Duval

Expresses displeasure at Sir Clement's arrival; is the target of Captain Mirvan's scheme.

## Key lines

> I was strolling this morning with Miss Mirvan, down a lane about a mile from the Grove, when we heard the trampling of horses; and, fearing the narrowness of the passage, we were turning hastily back, but stopped upon hearing a voice call out, 'Pray, Ladies, don't be frightened, for I will walk my horse.'

While walking with Maria Mirvan, Evelina hears horses and prepares to retreat, but a gentleman's voice reassures them.

_Sir Clement's arrival interrupts their walk._

> The Captain is now actually occupied in contriving some scheme, which, he says, is to pay the old Dowager off ; and so eager and delighted is he at the idea, that he can scarcely restrain his raptures sufficiently to conceal his design even from herself.

Captain Mirvan is eagerly planning a trick against Madame Duval, barely able to hide his excitement.

_Evelina disapproves of the scheme but feels unable to warn Madame Duval._

## Links

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