Miss Marjoribanks · Chapter
Chapter XII explained
Lucilla hosts her second Thursday evening, which proves more crowded and successful than the first.
What happens
Lucilla hosts her second Thursday evening, which proves more crowded and successful than the first. She manages the overflow of guests with characteristic poise, but faces a challenge when Barbara Lake monopolizes Mr. Cavendish's attention and sings too long. Lucilla intervenes by sending Barbara downstairs with Mr. Cavendish, sacrificing her own personal feelings for the sake of her social enterprise. The evening ends triumphantly, with Lucilla receiving compliments and reflecting on her success, while Dr. Marjoribanks retreats contentedly to his library.
Themes in this chapter
Performance and Appearance
Lucilla orchestrates the evening as a performance, managing guests and Barbara's singing to maintain the event's prestige.
Social Ambition and Control
Lucilla's strategic management of her Thursday evenings demonstrates her ambition to rule Carlingford society.
Self-Perception and Ego
Lucilla's reflections on her success and her ability to sacrifice personal feelings highlight her self-assured ego.
Characters to notice
- Lucilla Marjoribanks
Hosts the second Thursday evening with masterful control, sacrificing personal feelings to maintain the event's character.
- Barbara Lake
Oversteps by singing too long and monopolizing Mr. Cavendish, prompting Lucilla's intervention.
- Mr. Cavendish
Pays attention to Barbara Lake, causing concern, but is later sent downstairs with her by Lucilla.
- Mrs. Chiley
Lucilla's confidante; expresses indignation at Barbara's behavior and offers to intervene.
- Dr. Marjoribanks
Retreats to his library during the evening, enjoying the quiet while Lucilla manages the event.
- Osmond Brown
A young guest who awkwardly talks to the curate instead of flirting; Lucilla gently chides him.
Key passages
“It is the second time that counts”
The second event is the true test of success.
Lucilla explains to Mrs. Chiley that the second Thursday evening will determine the viability of her social project.
“My dear Barbara, that is enough for tonight. Mr. Cavendish will take you downstairs and get you a cup of tea; for you know there is no room tonight to serve it upstairs.”
Lucilla politely but firmly ends Barbara's singing session by sending her downstairs with Mr. Cavendish.
Lucilla sacrifices her own personal feelings to maintain control of the evening.
“It is one of my principles always to flirt in the middle of the company”
Lucilla advocates for flirting openly in the center of the room rather than in corners.
This reflects Lucilla's belief in maintaining visibility and order in social interactions.