Miss Mole · Chapter
XXXII explained
In the days between Uncle Jim's departure and Wilfrid's return, the Corder household enjoys an unnatural peace.
What happens
In the days between Uncle Jim's departure and Wilfrid's return, the Corder household enjoys an unnatural peace. Ethel is grateful to her father for not punishing her for Howard's fault, while Ruth remains cynically watchful. Hannah observes Robert Corder's self-protective consistency, questioning his authenticity. She plans a day in the country to visit her old farm but hesitates to exclude Ruth. A letter from Mr. Blenkinsop arrives, offering a day out and a chance to inspect a house for Mrs. Ridding. Hannah later meets Lilla, who questions her about Mr. Blenkinsop and Mr. Pilgrim, revealing tensions and secrets.
Themes in this chapter
Appearance vs. Reality
Hannah questions whether Robert Corder's consistency is genuine or a performed role, and the household's 'unnatural sweetness' masks underlying tensions.
Truth, Deception, and Moral Ambiguity
Hannah hides her secret from Mr. Samson, Lilla probes for hidden information, and Hannah deflects with a smile, suggesting layers of deception.
Loneliness and the Search for Connection
Hannah longs to visit her old farm and feels a pull toward Mr. Blenkinsop's offer of care, highlighting her isolation and desire for belonging.
Characters to notice
- Miss Hannah Mole
Reflects on Robert Corder's character, plans a country expedition, receives a letter from Mr. Blenkinsop, and meets Lilla for tea.
- Robert Corder
Maintains a consistent attitude after Howard's departure, merging into his role; Hannah questions his authenticity.
- Ethel Corder
Shows gratitude to her father and tries to alter a dress, seeking Hannah's help.
- Ruth
Cynically treasures good moments, reads in the saddlebag armchair, and notices Hannah's mood.
- Mr. Blenkinsop
Sends a letter to Hannah proposing a day in the country to inspect a house for Mrs. Ridding.
- Lilla
Meets Hannah for tea, questions her about Mr. Blenkinsop and Mr. Pilgrim, and expresses discomfort about Hannah's secrets.
Key passages
“His was a curious character and, for all his human weaknesses, she could not believe he was quite real. She would tell herself that he was a marvellous puppet, so much like a man that he could deceive most people, and then, when he came into the house, she had to admit her consciousness of his personality.”
Hannah finds Robert Corder so enigmatic that she sometimes thinks of him as a lifelike puppet, yet his presence in the house forces her to acknowledge his real influence.
Highlights Hannah's internal conflict about Corder's authenticity and power.
“She admitted to being tired and Mr. Samson growled his anxiety about her; he had told that Bible-smiter she was worth taking care of and would have told him a good deal more, but for Miss Fitt and the peaky little girl.”
Hannah confesses her fatigue, and Mr. Samson expresses concern, having defended her to Robert Corder but holding back for the sake of others.
Shows Mr. Samson's protective role and the constraints of social discretion.
“I’ve a fatal sort of attraction for him. Why is it do you think? I was the belle of the ball for Mr. Blenkinsop there isn’t a doubt.”
Hannah jokes that she has an irresistible appeal for Mr. Blenkinsop, claiming she was the highlight of the party for him.
Reveals Hannah's playful self-awareness and her complicated relationship with Mr. Blenkinsop.