Miss Marjoribanks · Chapter
XLVII explained
As the election approaches, Mr.
What happens
As the election approaches, Mr. Cavendish, weary from campaigning, pauses at Grove Street and is drawn by memories and the sound of a contralto voice from the Lake house. Lucilla, meanwhile, learns of his visit but chooses to suppress the information for the sake of fair play, binding Thomas to secrecy until after the election.
Themes in this chapter
Community and Gossip
The rapid spread of news about Mr. Cavendish's visit to the Lake house illustrates the power of gossip in Carlingford.
Performance and Appearance
Mr. Cavendish's public persona as a candidate contrasts with his private indulgences, and Lucilla's act of forbearance is a performance of moral superiority.
Self-Perception and Ego
Mr. Cavendish's resentment toward Lucilla and his self-justifying thoughts reveal his wounded ego and self-deception.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Cavendish
Pauses at Grove Street, recalls past, hears a contralto voice, and hesitates before the Lake house.
- Lucilla Marjoribanks
Learns of Mr. Cavendish's visit to the Lake house but resolves to keep it secret for fair play.
- Thomas
Tells Lucilla about Mr. Cavendish's visit and is sworn to secrecy in exchange for the hearth-brush.
- Barbara Lake
Passes Mr. Cavendish in the street and enters the Lake house; her contralto voice is heard from the window.
- Mr. Ashburton
Mentioned as the rival candidate, working hard and dealing in George Street.
- Mr. Wentworth
Has influence at Wharfside and opposes Mr. Cavendish, creating a boulder in the Rector's enthusiasm.
Key passages
“It was but natural, when Mr. Cavendish came to the corner of Grove Street, where, in other days, he had played a very different part, that certain softening influences should take possession of his soul.”
When Mr. Cavendish reached the corner of Grove Street, a place associated with past romantic memories, he naturally felt a sentimental softening.
Shows Mr. Cavendish's nostalgia and vulnerability as he recalls his earlier relationship with Barbara Lake.
“I will give it you, Thomas, if you will promise, never, until after the election—never to say a word about Mr. Cavendish and Miss Lake.”
Lucilla offers Thomas the hearth-brush on condition that he keep silent about Mr. Cavendish's visit to Miss Lake until after the election.
Highlights Lucilla's strategic self-restraint and her desire to maintain an appearance of impartiality.