# I Wouldn't Do It, if I Was You explained — He Knew He Was Right

> Chapter companion for He Knew He Was Right by Anthony Trollope.

## What happens

Dorothy Stanbury writes to her brother Hugh, inviting him to her wedding to Brooke Burgess and informing him of the arrangements. Miss Stanbury is depicted as declining in health and spirit, troubled by doubts about her life and her role in the future household. She contemplates leaving her home to avoid being a burden to the young couple, despite Martha's advice against it. The chapter also reveals Miss Stanbury's will, leaving her estate to Brooke and a legacy to Hugh, and her reluctant acceptance of Hugh's marriage to Nora Rowley.

## Themes in this chapter

### Family Loyalty and Sacrifice

Miss Stanbury's willingness to leave her home and sacrifice her comfort for the happiness of Brooke and Dorothy.

### Forgiveness and Reconciliation

Miss Stanbury's legacy to Hugh and her invitation for him to stay, signaling a mending of their rift.

### Pride and Stubbornness

Miss Stanbury's internal struggle with her past decisions and her reluctance to change despite her doubts.

## Character check-ins

### Dorothy Stanbury

Writes to Hugh about her wedding plans and invites him to stay.

### Miss Jemima Stanbury

Reflects on her life, health decline, and considers leaving her home; finalizes her will.

### Hugh Stanbury

Invited to Dorothy's wedding; left a legacy in Miss Stanbury's will.

### Brooke Burgess

Dorothy's fiancé; inherits Miss Stanbury's estate.

### Martha

Advises Miss Stanbury not to leave her home.

### Nora Rowley

Mentioned as Hugh's intended bride; Dorothy sends her love.

## Key lines

> I wouldn't do it, ma'am, if I was you. I wouldn't do it if it was ever so.

Martha advises Miss Stanbury against leaving her home, emphasizing the house is large enough for the young couple.

_Martha's plea reflects the theme of family loyalty and the fear of unnecessary change._

> I hope she will be happier than her sister.

Miss Stanbury expresses cautious hope for Nora's happiness, referencing Emily Trevelyan's troubled marriage.

_Shows Miss Stanbury's lingering judgment and concern about the Trevelyan affair._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/he_knew_he_was_right_se/chapters/lxxxix-i-wouldn-t-do-it-if-i-was-you
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/he_knew_he_was_right_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/he_knew_he_was_right_se/chapters