Orley Farm · Chapter
Mr. Furnival Again at His Chambers explained
Mr.
What happens
Mr. Furnival discusses with his clerk Crabwitz the threat posed by Samuel Dockwrath to Lady Mason, and considers sending Crabwitz to Hamworth to investigate. At The Cleeve, the Christmas celebrations are subdued; Lady Mason is treated with marked deference by Sir Peregrine, who contemplates proposing marriage. Mr. Furnival meets with Matthew Round, who reveals that Joseph Mason of Groby is considering indicting Lady Mason for forgery based on a newly discovered deed.
Themes in this chapter
Truth and Deception
The chapter revolves around the authenticity of a newly discovered deed and the potential for forgery, highlighting the tension between truth and deception in legal proceedings.
Reputation and Scandal
Lady Mason's reputation is at stake as Hamworth gossips and Sir Peregrine publicly supports her; the threat of a forgery indictment could bring scandal.
Law and Morality
Mr. Furnival and Mr. Round navigate the legal system, considering the morality of pursuing or defending against a forgery charge.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Furnival
Consults with Crabwitz about Dockwrath's machinations; meets with Matthew Round to discuss the threat of a forgery indictment against Lady Mason.
- Mr. Crabwitz
Furnival's clerk, tasked with possibly going to Hamworth to investigate Dockwrath.
- Lady Mason
Spends Christmas at The Cleeve, striving to appear serene; receives comfort from Mrs. Orme and public support from Sir Peregrine.
- Sir Peregrine Orme
Shows public support for Lady Mason at Christmas church service; contemplates proposing marriage to her.
- Mrs. Orme
Comforts Lady Mason at The Cleeve, sharing a tender moment with her.
- Mr. Round
Matthew Round, the attorney, meets with Furnival and discloses the plan to potentially indict Lady Mason for forgery.
Key passages
“I strongly suspect that that man Dockwrath is at some very foul play.”
Mr. Furnival tells Crabwitz he believes Dockwrath is engaged in dishonest schemes.
Furnival expresses his suspicion of Dockwrath's intentions.
“Why should I not? ... It shall not injure him—nor her.”
Sir Peregrine asks himself why he should not propose to Lady Mason, believing it will harm neither his son nor her.
Sir Peregrine's internal debate about marrying Lady Mason.
“Joseph Mason talks of indicting her for—forgery.”
Matthew Round reveals that Joseph Mason is considering charging Lady Mason with forgery.
The serious legal threat against Lady Mason is disclosed.