He Knew He Was Right · Chapter
XCIV: A Real Christian explained
Nora Rowley, engaged to Hugh Stanbury, faces the question of where to live while he is away.
What happens
Nora Rowley, engaged to Hugh Stanbury, faces the question of where to live while he is away. Her mother, Lady Rowley, arranges for her to stay with Lady Milborough in Eccleston Square, despite Nora's initial reluctance. Lady Milborough selflessly postpones her own departure from London to provide Nora with a proper home, demonstrating true Christian charity. During their time together, Nora and Lady Milborough discuss Nora's engagement, the Trevelyan tragedy, and Colonel Osborne's role. They also prepare a cottage at Twickenham for the Trevelyans' return from Italy.
Themes in this chapter
Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Lady Milborough and Nora discuss the Trevelyan tragedy with a spirit of forgiveness toward Emily and regret for Louis's stubbornness; Lady Milborough's actions aim to mend family bonds.
Social Reputation and Gossip
Nora's fear of scandal if she lived alone and Lady Milborough's concern for Nora's reputation highlight the importance of social propriety.
Gender Roles and Power in Marriage
The discussion of the Trevelyan marriage underscores the power dynamics and expectations placed on wives; Lady Milborough's advice reflects traditional gender roles.
Characters to notice
- Nora Rowley
Engaged to Hugh Stanbury; reluctantly agrees to stay with Lady Milborough after her mother insists; feels grateful for Lady Milborough's kindness.
- Lady Rowley
Arranges for Nora to stay with Lady Milborough; discusses Nora's future and the Trevelyan situation.
- Sir Marmaduke Rowley
Suggests Nora stay with Mrs. Outhouse; offers an allowance but is unable to propose a suitable residence.
- Lady Milborough
Selflessly postpones her departure from London to host Nora; acts as a Christian friend; discusses the Trevelyan affair and Colonel Osborne's behavior.
- Hugh Stanbury
Nora's fiancé; currently in Italy; letters and telegrams from him are received during the chapter.
- Emily Trevelyan
Nora's sister; her troubled marriage and return from Italy are discussed; a cottage at Twickenham is prepared for her and Louis.
- Louis Trevelyan
Emily's husband; his illness and the preparations for his return are mentioned; Lady Milborough reflects on his earlier refusal to go to Naples.
- Colonel Osborne
Criticized by Lady Milborough for his role in the Trevelyan marital troubles; she believes he should have removed himself from the situation.
Key passages
“It may be doubted whether any old lady since the world began ever did a more thoroughly Christian and friendly act than this which was now being done by Lady Milborough.”
The narrator suggests that Lady Milborough's kindness in hosting Nora is an unparalleled example of Christian charity.
This line encapsulates the chapter's title and central theme of selfless generosity.
“Lady Milborough was of opinion that young ladies ought to have their hearts under better control, so that the men entitled to the prizes should get them.”
Lady Milborough believes that young women should manage their affections to ensure that worthy, high-status men can marry them.
Reflects the social expectation that women should prioritize advantageous matches over personal inclination.
“He should have cut off his hand before he rang at the door of the house in which she was living.”
Lady Milborough asserts that Colonel Osborne should have avoided any contact with Emily Trevelyan once suspicions arose, even at great personal cost.
Highlights the strict code of conduct expected of gentlemen in protecting a married woman's reputation.
