Phineas Redux · Chapter
XXV: “I Would Do It Now” explained
The Duke of Omnium is dying at Matching.
What happens
The Duke of Omnium is dying at Matching. Madame Goesler is summoned to his bedside, and he expresses regret that she did not accept his marriage offer. Lady Hartletop arrives, demanding to see the Duke, but Lady Glencora refuses, citing the Duke's wish to see only his nephew, his nephew's wife, and Madame Goesler. The Duke complains about Lord Chiltern's letters regarding Trumpeton Wood and foxes. After a tense visit, Lady Hartletop leaves, having been denied access. The Duke's health continues to decline.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Sacrifice
Lady Hartletop's journey and tears for the Duke, and Madame Goesler's comforting presence, illustrate love and sacrifice in the face of death.
Social Class and Money
The Duke's offer of a coronet to Madame Goesler and her refusal highlight class dynamics and the power of social standing.
The Cost of Ambition
Plantagenet Palliser's obsession with decimal coinage over family duties shows the cost of political ambition.
Characters to notice
- The Old Duke of Omnium
Dying, weak, but retains his noble bearing. Expresses regret to Madame Goesler about not marrying her and complains about Lord Chiltern's letters.
- Madame Max Goesler
Summoned to the Duke's bedside, she comforts him and is the only non-family member allowed to see him. Reflects on her decision to refuse his marriage offer.
- Duchess of Omnium
Manages the household and the Duke's visitors, firmly refusing Lady Hartletop access. Shows kindness but remains resolute.
- Lady Hartletop
The Dowager Marchioness, an old friend of the Duke, travels to Matching but is denied entry. Weeps and leaves after a tense visit.
- Plantagenet Palliser
Visits his uncle twice daily but focuses on decimal coinage work. Indifferent to the Duke's complaints about foxes and woods.
- Lord Chiltern
Mentioned as having written letters to the Duke about Trumpeton Wood and foxes, causing the Duke distress.
- Sir Omicron Pie
The Duke's doctor, who restricts visitors and declares the Duke's condition is terminal.
Key passages
“I would do it now if I thought it would serve you.”
The Duke tells Madame Goesler he would marry her now if it would benefit her.
Expresses the Duke's regret and enduring affection.
“Men will love to the last, but they love what is fresh and new. A woman's love can live on the recollection of the past, and cling to what is old and ugly.”
The narrator contrasts men's love for novelty with women's love that endures through memory.
Reflects on gender differences in love, illustrated by Lady Hartletop's devotion.
“I knew she would be good to me to the last.”
The Duke expresses confidence in Madame Goesler's loyalty.
Shows the Duke's trust and reliance on Madame Goesler.