# XII: Rachel Ray Thinks “She Does Like Him” explained — Rachel Ray

> Chapter companion for Rachel Ray by Anthony Trollope.

## What happens

Mrs. Prime visits the cottage to seek advice about Mr. Prong's proposal, but is shocked to find Luke Rowan leaving. She confronts her mother and Rachel about encouraging Luke's courtship, leading to a tense family argument. After Mrs. Prime leaves, Rachel asks her mother about Luke's intentions and confesses she likes him; Mrs. Ray gives her permission to regard him as her lover.

## Themes in this chapter

### Courtship and Communication

Luke's proper approach to Mrs. Ray and Rachel's open confession of her feelings highlight the formal yet emotional process of Victorian courtship.

### Family and Filial Duty

The conflict between Mrs. Prime's strict religious views and Mrs. Ray's more lenient approach strains family bonds, while Rachel seeks her mother's blessing.

### Religion and Hypocrisy

Mrs. Prime's rigid application of religious doctrine clashes with her mother's evolving views, raising questions about true piety versus judgmental hypocrisy.

## Character check-ins

### Rachel Ray

Defends Luke to her sister, confesses her feelings to her mother, and receives permission to regard Luke as her lover.

### Mrs. Ray

Defends her decision to allow Luke's visits, reveals Luke's declaration to Rachel, and gives Rachel permission to accept his courtship.

### Mrs. Prime

Visits to seek advice about Mr. Prong's proposal but is angered by Luke's presence; argues with her mother and sister about the impropriety of the courtship.

### Luke Rowan

Mentioned as having visited the cottage and declared his intentions to Mrs. Ray; his courtship of Rachel is the central topic.

### Mr. Prong

Mentioned as having proposed to Mrs. Prime, who is considering his offer.

## Key lines

> She had taught herself to look on Rowan as the personification of mischief, as the very mischief itself in regard to Rachel.

Mrs. Prime had convinced herself that Luke Rowan was a dangerous influence on Rachel.

_Reflects Mrs. Prime's extreme opposition to Luke._

> I think I do like him

Rachel admits to her mother that she has feelings for Luke.

_Key moment of Rachel's self-awareness and confession._

> I'm sure I don't wonder at it, for I like him very much.

Mrs. Ray says she understands Rachel's feelings because she also likes Luke.

_Shows Mrs. Ray's approval and softening toward Luke._

## Links

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