Orley Farm · Chapter
Mr. Furnival Looks for Assistance explained
Mr.
What happens
Mr. Furnival consults with his clerk Crabwitz about the Orley Farm case, then seeks the assistance of the seasoned barrister Mr. Chaffanbrass. They discuss strategy, potential counsel, and the likelihood of Lady Mason's guilt, with Furnival internally conflicted about his client's innocence.
Themes in this chapter
Truth and Deception
Furnival and Chaffanbrass both suspect Lady Mason's guilt, yet prepare to defend her, highlighting the tension between legal strategy and moral truth.
Law and Morality
The chapter explores the ethical dilemmas of defending a possibly guilty client, as Furnival grapples with his professional duty and personal feelings.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Furnival
Consults with Crabwitz and then visits Mr. Chaffanbrass to secure legal assistance for Lady Mason's defense.
- Mr. Crabwitz
Reports back from Hamworth, offering his opinion that the codicil was never made by Sir Joseph.
- Mr. Chaffanbrass
Agrees to take a brief in the case, though he appears convinced of Lady Mason's guilt.
- Lady Mason
The client in question; Furnival internally struggles with his belief in her possible guilt while admiring her beauty and innocence.
- Felix Graham
Mentioned as a potential junior counsel who is interested in the case and believes in Lady Mason's innocence.
- Solomon Aram
Suggested by Chaffanbrass as a possible attorney, but Furnival rejects the idea due to concerns about reputation.
Key passages
“In his heart of hearts, he did believe that that codicil had been fraudulently manufactured by his friend and client, Lady Mason.”
Deep down, Furnival believed Lady Mason had forged the codicil.
Reveals Furnival's private suspicion of his client's guilt.
“He would still bring her through! Yes, in spite of her guilt, if she were guilty; on the strength of her innocency, if she were innocent; but on account of her beauty, and soft hand, and deep liquid eye.”
He was determined to secure her acquittal, driven partly by her attractiveness.
Highlights Furnival's conflicted motives—professional duty mixed with personal admiration.