# LXII: The King Must Not Be Prayed For explained — Lorna Doone

> Chapter companion for Lorna Doone by R. D. Blackmore.

## What happens

News of King Charles II's death reaches the parish, causing confusion and a halt in prayers. John Ridd reflects on Lorna's silence since her departure, and the Doones' inactivity is explained by their preparation for a government assault. Annie returns home with her baby, distressed by household neglect and personal troubles.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Sacrifice

John's sorrow over Lorna's silence and his longing for her presence highlight the theme of love and personal sacrifice.

### Family and Loyalty

Annie's return and John's comfort to her, along with the family's concern for reputation and loyalty to the crown, underscore family bonds.

### Justice and Revenge

The Doones' preparation for attack and the King's death disrupting justice efforts reflect themes of lawlessness and retribution.

## Character check-ins

### John Ridd

Narrator; returns home from mowing, reflects on Lorna's absence and the King's death, and comforts Annie.

### Annie Ridd

Returns home with her baby, visibly upset and critical of Lizzie's housekeeping, seeks comfort from John.

### Lorna Doone

Mentioned in John's thoughts; he feels abandoned by her lack of communication since she left for London.

### Annie Ridd (younger)

Implied through Annie's criticism; her housekeeping and intellectual pretensions are noted.

### Parson Bowden

Conducts the service when Sam Fry interrupts the prayer for the King.

### Sam Fry

Brings news of the King's death and interrupts the church service.

## Key lines

> I forbid that there prai-er.

Sam Fry interrupts the church service to stop the prayer for the King, declaring the King is dead.

_Sam Fry's dramatic announcement of King Charles II's death during the service._

> Dead as a sto-un: poisoned by they Papishers.

Sam Fry states the King is dead, poisoned by Catholics.

_Sam Fry's blunt and accusatory report of the King's death._

> How natural it all looks again! Oh, I love this old kitchen so!

Annie expresses nostalgia and affection for the familiar kitchen upon her return.

_Annie's emotional reaction to returning home._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/lorna_doone_se/chapters/lxii-the-king-must-not-be-prayed-for
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/lorna_doone_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/lorna_doone_se/chapters