# IV explained — Miss Mole

> Chapter companion for Miss Mole by E. H. Young.

## What happens

Hannah Mole visits her cousin Lilla Spenser-Smith, who reveals a scheme to secure her a position as housekeeper for the widowed minister Mr. Corder. Hannah accepts the proposal with characteristic wit and irreverence, while Lilla expresses concern over Hannah's unconventional behavior and past. The chapter also depicts Hannah's walk through Upper Radstowe, reflecting on her circumstances and the beauty of the autumn day.

## Themes in this chapter

### Class and Social Mobility

Hannah's discussion of her 'simple yeoman stock' and Lilla's genteel pretensions highlight class tensions and the desire for social advancement.

### Appearance vs. Reality

Hannah's cheerful demeanor and witty remarks mask her precarious situation, while Lilla's concern for respectability contrasts with Hannah's candidness.

## Character check-ins

### Miss Hannah Mole

Visits her cousin Lilla, learns of the housekeeper position, and walks through Upper Radstowe, enjoying the autumn scenery.

### Lilla

Arranges for Hannah to become Mr. Corder's housekeeper, expresses concern about Hannah's past and behavior.

### Robert Corder

Mentioned as the widower minister who needs a housekeeper; Lilla plans to recommend Hannah.

### Ethel Corder

Mentioned as Mr. Corder's daughter who is 'useless' and always at the Mission.

### Ruth

Mentioned as Mr. Corder's younger daughter still at school, noted for having a hole in her stocking.

### Mr. Blenkinsop

Mentioned as a resident at Mrs. Gibson's house and as not amusing at the Literary meeting.

## Key lines

> I managed to be unbearably irritating without being actually rude, so she could neither keep nor rob me.

Hannah says she annoyed her former employer just enough to avoid being fired or cheated out of her wages.

_Hannah explains her strategy for leaving a previous position with a month's wages._

> They always believe the worst and they don't mind a bit.

Hannah remarks that old cabmen assume the worst about people but are untroubled by it.

_Hannah describes the cabman who helped her find lodgings._

> The good thing remembered or hoped for had a blessed superiority over the thing grasped.

Hannah reflects that anticipating or recalling a pleasant experience is better than actually possessing it.

_Hannah's philosophical musing while walking on the Downs._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/miss_mole_se/chapters/iv
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/miss_mole_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/miss_mole_se/chapters