# XXI: Warning explained — Hester

> Chapter companion for Hester by Margaret Oliphant.

## What happens

Roland Ashton prepares to leave the Vernonry, but not before a tense conversation with his grandparents, Captain and Mrs. Morgan, about his financial dealings with the Vernons. Captain Morgan warns him against bringing ruin to the family that has sheltered them, while Mrs. Morgan appeals to his loyalty to Catherine Vernon. Roland defends his profession and promises no harm. Later, he bids farewell to Hester, who feels a pang at his departure, and hints that he has heard she may soon be congratulated, leaving her puzzled.

## Themes in this chapter

### Wealth and Morality

Captain Morgan condemns Roland's speculative trade as a 'devilish trade' that profits from others' losses, highlighting the moral conflict between financial gain and family loyalty.

### Family and Obligation

Mrs. Morgan appeals to Roland's duty to the Vernons, who have sheltered the family, while Roland takes responsibility for his sister Emma, showing familial bonds and obligations.

### Deception and Secrecy

Roland's hint of future congratulations to Hester suggests hidden plans or secrets, and Captain Morgan suspects Roland may be leading Edward into imprudent investments.

## Character check-ins

### Roland Ashton

Defends his financial profession to his grandfather, promises not to harm the Vernons, and bids a tender farewell to Hester, hinting at future congratulations.

### Catherine Vernon

Praised by Mrs. Morgan as a noble character who trusts few; her kindness to the Morgans is cited as a reason for Roland to act honorably.

### Hester Vernon

Feels a pang at Roland's departure, having enjoyed his company and the new world he opened to her; she is puzzled by his hint that she may be congratulated.

### Captain Morgan

Warns Roland against speculative business, fearing it will bring ruin to the Vernons; softens toward Roland by the end of his visit.

### Mrs. Morgan

Appeals to Roland's loyalty to Catherine Vernon, urging him not to lead anyone she loves into danger; mediates between her husband and grandson.

### Edward Vernon

Mentioned by Captain Morgan as a morose, ill-tempered man who might fall victim to speculation; Roland is to handle his business.

## Key lines

> Catherine Vernon is a noble character. She has a fine nature. She has a scorn of meanness and everything that is little

Hester praises Catherine Vernon's noble and generous character, emphasizing her disdain for pettiness.

_Hester defends Catherine's character during the conversation about Roland's dealings._

> When you do put your shoulder to the wheel, Mary, you do it like a hero.

Captain Morgan compliments his wife for her heartfelt and effective appeal to Roland.

_Said after Mrs. Morgan's emotional plea to Roland, showing the captain's admiration._

> I shall see thousands of people, but I shall not forget you.

Roland assures Hester that despite meeting many others, she will remain memorable to him.

_Roland's parting words to Hester, expressing his personal interest in her._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/hester_se/chapters/xxi-warning
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/hester_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/hester_se/chapters