Shirley · Chapter
XV: Mr. Donne's Exodus explained
Shirley and Caroline discuss Robert Moore's character.
What happens
Shirley and Caroline discuss Robert Moore's character. The curates Donne and Malone visit, causing a commotion with Tartar, Shirley's dog. A luncheon is held on the lawn, and Mr. Hall invites Shirley to participate in the Whitsuntide Sunday-school tea-drinking. Caroline and Mr. Hall share a sentimental moment exchanging flowers.
Themes in this chapter
Social Class and Inequality
Donne's presumptuous request for a subscription and his condescending attitude toward Shirley illustrate class dynamics and the clergy's reliance on patronage.
Friendship and Female Solidarity
Caroline and Shirley's close bond is evident in their private conversation about Robert Moore and their shared enjoyment of the luncheon.
Religion and Hypocrisy
Mr. Hall's sincere humility contrasts with Donne's vulgar and self-serving behavior, highlighting hypocrisy among the clergy.
Characters to notice
- Shirley Keeldar
Hosts the luncheon, discusses Robert Moore with Caroline, and calms Tartar after the curates provoke him.
- Caroline Helstone
Engages in conversation about Robert Moore, participates in the luncheon, and exchanges flowers with Mr. Hall.
- Robert Moore
Discussed by Shirley and Caroline; noted for his guarded and observant nature.
- Mr. Hall
Invites Shirley to the Whitsuntide event, shares a sentimental moment with Caroline exchanging flowers, and speaks on humility and goodness.
- Mr. Donne
Visits with Malone, provokes Tartar, and rudely asks Shirley for a subscription to a school.
- Mr. Malone
Visits with Donne, provokes Tartar, and is described as contributing little to the merriment.
Key passages
“I rather like to entertain a circle of gentlemen," said she. "It is amusing to observe how they enjoy a judiciously concocted repast.”
Shirley finds it entertaining to host gentlemen because they appreciate a well-prepared meal.
Shirley expresses her enjoyment of hosting and observing male guests.
“He is never off his guard. He won't give you an advantage. Even when he does not look at you, his thoughts seem to be busy amongst your own thoughts, tracing your words and actions to their source, contemplating your motives at his ease.”
Robert Moore is always alert and analyzes others' words and actions, even when not directly looking at them.
Shirley describes Robert Moore's guarded and analytical nature.
“I hope part of you is hand also," returned Donne, in his vulgarly presumptuous and familiar style, "and part purse. It is to the hand and purse I propose to appeal.”
Donne rudely implies he expects Shirley to contribute money to his cause.
Donne's presumptuous and vulgar request for a subscription.