Phineas Redux · Chapter
The Deserted Husband explained
Phineas Finn, having observed the debate from the gallery, is troubled by Mr.
What happens
Phineas Finn, having observed the debate from the gallery, is troubled by Mr. Daubeny's success. He receives a letter from Robert Kennedy, who requests a visit to Loughlinter to discuss his estranged wife, Lady Laura. Despite the unpleasantness, Phineas feels obliged to go. Upon arrival, he finds the house cold and desolate. During their tense meeting, Kennedy accuses Phineas of being an adulterer and a Papist, and Phineas, fearing for his safety, decides to leave as soon as possible.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Sacrifice
Phineas undertakes a disagreeable journey to Loughlinter out of a sense of duty and Christian charity, sacrificing his own comfort.
Scandal and Public Opinion
The estrangement of the Kennedys and the rumors surrounding their marriage are central to the chapter's tension.
Characters to notice
- Phineas Finn
Visits Loughlinter at Robert Kennedy's request, feeling obligated despite the discomfort.
- Robert Kennedy
The deserted husband, who summons Phineas to Loughlinter and accuses him of causing the rift with Lady Laura.
- Lady Laura Kennedy
Mentioned as the estranged wife living in Dresden; Phineas plans to visit her after his stop at Loughlinter.
- Mr. Daubeny
His success in the debate on Church disestablishment grieves Phineas.
- Earl of Brentford
Phineas had planned to spend Christmas with him and Lady Laura at Dresden.
Key passages
“Phineas Finn had been in the gallery of the House throughout the debate, and was greatly grieved at Mr. Daubeny’s success, though he himself had so strongly advocated the disestablishment of the Church in canvassing the electors of Tankerville.”
Phineas watched the debate from the gallery and was upset by Daubeny's victory, even though he had campaigned for the same cause.
Highlights Phineas's political frustration and the irony of his position.
“I ask you to come to me, not as a pleasure, but as a Christian duty.”
Kennedy appeals to Phineas's sense of moral obligation rather than offering an enjoyable visit.
Shows Kennedy's manipulative use of religious duty to compel Phineas's visit.
“Then you will be accursed among adulterers, said the laird of Loughlinter.”
Kennedy condemns Phineas as an adulterer, blaming him for the marital breakdown.
Reveals Kennedy's extreme and accusatory state of mind.