XXII explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Class and Social Hierarchy

  Mrs. Mortimer's status as a 'faded existence' who has 'seen better days' highlights the precariousness of class position for women.

• Performance and Appearance

  Lucilla's careful management of her own presentation and the Archdeacon's shifting demeanor underscore the theme of social performance.

• Community and Gossip

  Carlingford speculates about the Archdeacon's attentions to Lucilla, showing the community's role in interpreting social interactions.

Characters to notice

• Lucilla Marjoribanks

  Leads the Archdeacon to Mrs. Mortimer's school, reflecting on his softened manner and anticipating a possible proposal.

• Archdeacon Beverley

  Accompanies Lucilla to the school, where he is shocked to encounter Mrs. Mortimer, revealing a prior connection.

• Mrs. Mortimer

  Sees the Archdeacon approaching and is visibly shaken, dropping her books and turning pale.

• Mrs. Chiley

  Feels burdened by hosting the Archdeacon but bears it for Lucilla's sake.

• Miss Bury

  Subtly pressures Mrs. Chiley about the responsibility of hosting the Archdeacon, hinting at disapproval.

Key passages

• “I look upon it as quite a compliment to Carlingford; for, to be sure, he would not stay if he had not some attraction”

  Mrs. Chiley suggests the Archdeacon's prolonged visit is due to an attraction in Carlingford, likely Lucilla.

  Highlights the community's speculation about the Archdeacon's motives.

• “It is a school, and I am so much interested in it. I may call it my school, for that matter.”

  Lucilla claims ownership of the school she helped establish for Mrs. Mortimer.

  Shows Lucilla's pride in her charitable work and her sense of proprietorship.

• “Am I dreaming, or is it you?”

  The Archdeacon expresses shock and disbelief upon seeing Mrs. Mortimer.

  Reveals a prior, significant relationship between the Archdeacon and Mrs. Mortimer.