# Showing How Things Went on at Noningsby explained — Orley Farm

> Chapter companion for Orley Farm by Anthony Trollope.

## What happens

Felix Graham discusses his involvement in Lady Mason's case with Judge Staveley, then confesses his love for Madeline Staveley. The judge, while personally approving of Graham, asks him to wait three months before addressing Madeline. Meanwhile, Lady Staveley learns of Madeline's feelings for Graham and laments the situation, comparing him unfavorably to Peregrine Orme.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Marriage

Felix Graham's confession of love for Madeline Staveley and the judge's conditional response highlight the tension between romantic affection and practical considerations.

### Social Class and Ambition

Lady Staveley's preference for Peregrine Orme over Felix Graham underscores class and financial status as key factors in marriage.

### Law and Morality

Graham's discomfort with Mr. Chaffanbrass and Mr. Aram reflects moral questions about the legal profession.

## Character check-ins

### Felix Graham

Seeks Judge Staveley's approval to work on Lady Mason's case and confesses his love for Madeline.

### Judge Staveley

Approves Graham's legal work and responds to his romantic confession with a three-month delay.

### Madeline Staveley

Confesses her love for Felix Graham to her mother, Lady Staveley.

### Lady Staveley

Distressed by Madeline's confession, compares Graham unfavorably to Peregrine Orme.

### Augustus Staveley

Mentioned as making a fool of himself over Miss Furnival.

### Miss Furnival

Mentioned in relation to Augustus Staveley's attentions.

## Key lines

> I cannot bring myself to suppose it possible that she can have been guilty of any fraud or deception.

Felix Graham expresses his belief in Lady Mason's innocence.

_Graham's conviction in Lady Mason's innocence drives his decision to take on her case._

> I have fallen in love with your daughter Madeline.

Felix Graham confesses his love for Madeline Staveley to Judge Staveley.

_This confession sets up the romantic conflict of the chapter._

> He has not a shilling in the world.

Lady Staveley laments Felix Graham's lack of fortune.

_Highlights the financial concerns surrounding the potential match._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/orley_farm_se/chapters/lii-showing-how-things-went-on-at-noningsby
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/orley_farm_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/orley_farm_se/chapters