Martin Chuzzlewit · Chapter
XIV explained
Martin bids farewell to Mary Graham and entrusts her to the care of Tom Pinch.
What happens
Martin bids farewell to Mary Graham and entrusts her to the care of Tom Pinch. He gives Mark Tapley a letter for Mary, arranging a morning meeting in St. James's Park. Martin reveals his plan to go to America, warns Mary about Pecksniff's true character, and gives her a letter for Tom Pinch. Mary gives Martin a diamond ring, which he mistakenly believes came from his grandfather, but Mark realizes she bought it with her savings. Mark observes Martin's self-absorption with a wry smile.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Trust
Martin warns Mary about Pecksniff's deceitful nature while entrusting her to the honest Tom Pinch.
Redemption and Self-Discovery
Martin's plan to go to America represents a quest for fortune and self-improvement, though his self-absorption is evident.
Characters to notice
- Martin Chuzzlewit
Bids farewell to Mary, plans to go to America, and entrusts her to Tom Pinch's care.
- Mary Graham
Meets Martin in the park, gives him a diamond ring bought with her savings, and receives his letter for Tom Pinch.
- Mark Tapley
Delivers Martin's letter to Mary, escorts her to the meeting, and silently observes Martin's obliviousness about the ring.
- Tom Pinch
Mentioned as the recipient of Martin's letter; Martin praises his honesty and simplicity.
- Seth Pecksniff
Denounced by Martin as a scoundrel; Martin warns Mary about him.
Key passages
“Pecksniff is a scoundrel.”
Martin declares that Pecksniff is a dishonest and immoral person.
Martin warns Mary about Pecksniff's true character.
“She is worthy of the sacrifices I have made.”
Martin believes Mary deserves the hardships he has endured for her sake.
Martin's self-centered reflection on his relationship with Mary.