Lady Audley’s Secret · Chapter
XI: The Mark Upon My Lady’s Wrist explained
Robert Audley visits Sir Michael and Lady Audley at Audley Court, expressing unease about his friend George Talboys, who has returned to London.
What happens
Robert Audley visits Sir Michael and Lady Audley at Audley Court, expressing unease about his friend George Talboys, who has returned to London. Lady Audley dismisses Robert's concerns, but later Robert notices a bruise on her wrist that she claims came from a ribbon, though he suspects she is lying. He resolves to search for George in London and Southampton.
Themes in this chapter
Secrecy and Deception
Lady Audley's false explanation for the bruise on her wrist and her fabricated story about a dying friend illustrate her deceptive nature.
Appearance vs. Reality
Lady Audley's charming demeanor contrasts with Robert's growing suspicion about her honesty and the true nature of the bruise.
Love and Marriage
Sir Michael's adoration of Lady Audley and the discussion of George Talboys' deep grief over his wife's death explore different facets of marital love.
Characters to notice
- Robert Audley
Expresses anxiety about George Talboys and notices the bruise on Lady Audley's wrist, suspecting deception.
- Lady Audley
Dismisses Robert's concerns about George, tells a story about a ribbon causing a bruise on her wrist, and displays charm at dinner.
- Sir Michael Audley
Proudly watches Lady Audley's charm and examines the bruise on her wrist at Robert's prompting.
- Alicia Audley
Makes a sarcastic comment about Robert's attachment to George Talboys.
- George Talboys
Referenced as having returned to London, causing Robert's unease; his grief over his wife's death is discussed.
Key passages
“Robert found Sir Michael and Lady Audley in the drawing-room. My lady was sitting on a music-stool before the grand piano, turning over the leaves of some new music.”
Robert entered the drawing-room to find Sir Michael and Lady Audley; she was seated at the piano, leafing through new sheet music.
Sets the scene for the chapter's interactions.
“I sometimes think that one day this grief will get the better of him, and he will do something rash.”
Robert fears that George's sorrow over his wife's death might drive him to suicide.
Reveals Robert's deep concern for George's mental state.
“I am unfortunate in having a skin which the slightest touch bruises.”
Lady Audley claims her skin is easily bruised to explain the marks on her wrist.
Her excuse is undermined by Robert's observation of the bruise's freshness.