# XII explained — Little Lord Fauntleroy

> Chapter companion for Little Lord Fauntleroy by Frances Hodgson Burnett.

## What happens

The Earl of Dorincourt, distressed by the claim of a woman asserting to be the true Lady Fauntleroy, visits Mrs. Errol and admits his fondness for Cedric. He promises to provide for the boy regardless of the legal outcome. Cedric, worried about his mother's security, is reassured by his grandfather that he will remain 'his boy' no matter what. The claimant appears at the Castle but is turned away, and the story becomes public sensation, though Cedric remains calm and untroubled.

## Themes in this chapter

### Family and Belonging

The Earl's declaration that Cedric will be 'his boy' regardless of title underscores the theme of chosen family bonds over legal inheritance.

### Redemption and Change

The Earl's visit to Mrs. Errol and his admission of past wrongs show his softening and desire for reconciliation.

### Justice and Deception

The claimant's fraudulent assertion of title introduces themes of legal justice and the exposure of deception.

## Character check-ins

### Mrs. Errol

Receives the Earl's visit, speaks with dignity and compassion, and is contrasted favorably with the claimant.

### Earl of Dorincourt

Visits Mrs. Errol in distress, admits his love for Cedric, and vows to protect the boy's future.

### Cedric Errol

Worries about his mother's house and carriage, but is reassured by the Earl; remains calm amid the turmoil.

### Mr. Havisham

Mentioned as handling the legal case and interviewing the claimant.

### Thomas

Delivers the message to the claimant at the Castle and expresses his opinion of her.

## Key lines

> I am miserable. Miserable! ... Perhaps it is because I am miserable that I have come to you.

The Earl admits his deep unhappiness and says that his misery drove him to seek out Mrs. Errol.

_The Earl's vulnerability and need for comfort are revealed._

> Will they take Dearest's house from her—and her carriage?

Cedric asks anxiously whether his mother will lose her home and transportation.

_Cedric's primary concern is for his mother's well-being, not his own title._

> Yes, you'll be my boy as long as I live; and, by George, sometimes I feel as if you were the only boy I had ever had.

The Earl promises Cedric that their bond will remain unchanged, regardless of the legal outcome.

_This moment solidifies the emotional connection between grandfather and grandson._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/little_lord_fauntleroy_se/chapters/xii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/little_lord_fauntleroy_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/little_lord_fauntleroy_se/chapters