Orley Farm · Chapter
Sir Peregrine Makes a Second Promise explained
Lady Mason, grateful for Sir Peregrine's promise regarding her son, raises another concern: the threat of renewed legal trouble from Mr.
What happens
Lady Mason, grateful for Sir Peregrine's promise regarding her son, raises another concern: the threat of renewed legal trouble from Mr. Dockwrath, who has gone to Yorkshire with documents from old Mr. Usbech. She seeks Sir Peregrine's counsel and reassurance. He advises her to ignore Dockwrath and not consult Mr. Furnival unless legally summoned, promising not to desert her. Lady Mason resolves to wait, comforted by his support.
Themes in this chapter
Truth and Deception
Lady Mason's hidden anxiety and the secretive actions of Dockwrath highlight the theme of concealed motives and potential deception.
Reputation and Scandal
The threat of renewed legal proceedings endangers Lady Mason's reputation and social standing, prompting her to seek Sir Peregrine's protection.
Characters to notice
- Lady Mason
Anxious about renewed legal threats from Dockwrath; seeks and receives Sir Peregrine's promise of support.
- Sir Peregrine Orme
Gives Lady Mason a second promise of friendship and assistance, advising her to ignore Dockwrath's actions.
- Samuel Dockwrath
Has gone to Yorkshire with documents, potentially to revive the lawsuit against Lady Mason.
- Mrs. Dockwrath
Visits Lady Mason to inform her of her husband's departure and intentions.
- Mr. Furnival
Considered by Lady Mason as a potential legal advisor, but Sir Peregrine advises against consulting him yet.
Key passages
“They say that the pith of a lady’s letter is in the postscript, and it may be that that which remained for Lady Mason to say, was after all the matter as to which she was most anxious for assistance.”
The most important part of Lady Mason's request came last, like a postscript in a letter.
Introduces Lady Mason's secondary, deeper concern about the legal threat.
“I know you think that I have done wrong,” she then said, appealing to him; and there was a tone of sorrow in her voice which went to his heart. “No, not wrong; I cannot say that you have done wrong. It may be a question whether you have done wisely.”
Lady Mason fears Sir Peregrine disapproves of her actions, but he softens his criticism by questioning her wisdom rather than her morality.
Shows Sir Peregrine's gentle rebuke and Lady Mason's emotional vulnerability.