# LXI: The Beginning of the Trial explained — Phineas Redux

> Chapter companion for Phineas Redux by Anthony Trollope.

## What happens

The trial of Phineas Finn for the murder of Mr. Bonteen begins at the Old Bailey. The chapter describes the tedious and unpleasant atmosphere of the court, the difficulty of obtaining a seat, and the perspectives of various onlookers including Mr. Monk, Mr. Quintus Slide, and Mr. Bunce. Barrington Erle reports to the Duchess of Omnium on the proceedings, noting Phineas's composed demeanor and the initial challenges in swearing a jury. Lord Chiltern also brings news to his wife and sister, detailing the prosecution's case. Lady Laura Kennedy listens in silence, deeply affected.

## Themes in this chapter

### Justice and Injustice

The trial highlights the tension between legal procedure and the search for truth, as well as the public's divided opinions on Phineas's guilt or innocence.

### Scandal and Public Opinion

The trial is a public spectacle, with figures like Quintus Slide using it to advance his agenda, and the Duchess vowing to make a statement through her attire.

### Friendship and Loyalty

Characters like the Duchess, Lady Chiltern, and Mr. Monk grapple with their loyalty to Phineas amid the damning evidence presented in court.

## Character check-ins

### Phineas Finn

The prisoner at the bar, described as thin and pale but handsome, maintains a composed demeanor throughout the opening of the trial.

### Duchess of Omnium

Anxiously inquires about the trial from Barrington Erle and expresses strong support for Phineas, vowing to wear mourning if he is convicted.

### Barrington Erle

Reports to the Duchess on the trial proceedings, noting Phineas's appearance and the jury selection process.

### Lord Chiltern

Brings an account of the trial to his wife and sister, detailing the prosecution's case and the evidence against Phineas.

### Lady Laura Kennedy

Listens silently to the trial news, deeply affected, and later speaks only briefly to Lady Chiltern.

### Mr. Monk

Present in court as a benchfellow, tormented by doubts about Phineas's guilt and unable to visit him again.

## Key lines

> He told Finn that as he had thought fit to employ counsel for his defence—in doing which he had undoubtedly acted wisely—he must leave the case to the discretion of his counsel.

The Chief Justice advised Phineas to trust his lawyers and not interfere with their strategy.

_The judge's instruction to Phineas during the jury selection, emphasizing the role of counsel._

> I never believe anything that a lawyer says when he has a wig on his head and a fee in his hand.

Lord Chiltern expresses deep skepticism toward lawyers, viewing their arguments as bought and paid for.

_Reflects Lord Chiltern's cynical view of the legal profession._

> If—if—if this ends badly for Mr. Finn I'll wear mourning to the day of my death. I'll go to the Drawing Room in mourning, to show what I think of it.

The Duchess vows to publicly mourn Phineas for life if he is convicted, as a statement of her belief in his innocence.

_Demonstrates the Duchess's fierce loyalty and the social weight of the trial._

## Links

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