# XV: Mr. Donne's Exodus explained — Shirley

> Chapter companion for Shirley by Charlotte Brontë.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

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