He Knew He Was Right · Chapter
Miss Jemima Stanbury, of Exeter explained
This chapter introduces Miss Jemima Stanbury, a formidable maiden lady of Exeter who belongs to the 'county' set despite living in the city.
What happens
This chapter introduces Miss Jemima Stanbury, a formidable maiden lady of Exeter who belongs to the 'county' set despite living in the city. It details her strict household rules, her political conservatism, and her estrangement from her nephew Hugh Stanbury after he took a job writing for a radical penny newspaper. The chapter culminates in her decision to invite one of her nieces from Nuncombe Putney to live with her, a plan she discusses with her servant Martha.
Themes in this chapter
Pride and Stubbornness
Miss Stanbury's refusal to compromise on her principles, even at the cost of family relationships, is a central theme. She cuts off Hugh for his radical journalism and insists on her authority in her household.
Class and Professional Identity
The chapter explores how professional choices (Hugh's journalism) affect social standing and family bonds, and how Miss Stanbury's identity is tied to her 'county' status in Exeter.
Family Loyalty and Sacrifice
Miss Stanbury's decision to invite a niece to live with her, despite her own misgivings and Martha's warnings, reflects a sense of family duty and the sacrifices it entails.
Characters to notice
- Miss Jemima Stanbury
The chapter centers on her character, detailing her strict household rules, her high social standing in Exeter, her conservative political views, and her decision to invite a niece to live with her.
- Hugh Stanbury
Mentioned as the nephew who has fallen out of favor with his aunt due to his employment as a writer for a radical penny newspaper.
- Martha
Miss Stanbury's servant, who is consulted about the plan to bring a niece to live in the house and expresses skepticism about the arrangement.
- Dorothy Stanbury
Implied as the niece being invited to live with Miss Stanbury, though not named directly in the excerpts.
Key passages
“I have asked Mrs. Stanbury to send one of the girls over here.”
Miss Stanbury has invited one of her nieces to come and live with her.
This marks the beginning of a new family arrangement that will likely affect Dorothy Stanbury's life.
“The bread of unworthiness should never be earned or eaten.”
Miss Stanbury believes that work done in an unworthy profession is shameful and should not be pursued.
This harsh judgment underscores her complete rejection of Hugh's career choice.
“I will have no connection that I can help, and no acquaintance at all, with radical scribblers and incendiaries.”
Miss Stanbury refuses to associate with anyone involved in radical journalism, which she sees as destructive.
This statement formalizes her estrangement from Hugh and reflects her rigid political and social views.