The American Senator · Chapter
Conclusion explained
The final chapter wraps up the fates of the main characters.
What happens
The final chapter wraps up the fates of the main characters. Senator Gotobed leaves England after his controversial lecture, continuing his crusade for justice back in America. Lord Rufford marries Miss Penge and settles into a quieter, more domestic life. In Dillsborough, the Masters family moves to Hoppet Hall, and the U.R.U. hunting club finds a new master in young Hampton after Captain Glomax resigns. Lawrence Twentyman remains a central figure, buying Goarly's fields and staying active in the community, while Reginald Morton and Mary Masters enjoy their married happiness.
Themes in this chapter
American vs. British Values
Senator Gotobed's departure and the local reaction to his lecture underscore the clash between American reformist ideals and British traditionalism.
Rural Life and Community
The chapter details the routines of Dillsborough life, including the U.R.U. club, the Bush Inn, and the social dynamics among farmers and gentry.
Love vs. Practicality
Lord Rufford's marriage to Miss Penge for her fortune contrasts with the genuine love and happiness found by Reginald and Mary Morton.
Characters to notice
- Senator Gotobed
Leaves England after his lecture is poorly received; continues his reform efforts in the U.S. Senate.
- Lord Rufford
Marries Miss Penge, buys Sir John Purefoy's property, and becomes more settled and less adventurous.
- Lawrence Twentyman
Buys Goarly's fields, remains active in the U.R.U., and is a regular at Hoppet Hall and the Dillsborough club.
- Mary Masters
Now married to Reginald Morton, she reflects on their courtship and finds happiness with him at Bragton.
- Reginald Morton
Marries Mary Masters and lives contentedly at Bragton, reminiscing about their early days.
- Mr. Masters
Moves to Hoppet Hall with his family and continues his regular attendance at the Dillsborough club.
Key passages
“Don Quixote was not more just than the Senator, or more philanthropic—nor perhaps more apt to wage war against the windmills.”
The Senator, like Don Quixote, is idealistic and fights against perceived injustices, even if his efforts are sometimes misguided.
Compares Senator Gotobed's crusading nature to the fictional knight-errant.
“Lord Rufford married Miss Penge of course, and used the lady’s fortune in buying the property of Sir John Purefoy. We may probably be safe in saying that the acquisition added very little to his happiness.”
Lord Rufford's marriage to Miss Penge was a practical arrangement for her money, but it did not bring him true joy.
Highlights the theme of marriage for financial gain versus personal fulfillment.
“I was longing, longing, longing to come,” she said. “And why didn’t you come?” “How little you know about girls! Of course I had to go with the one I—I—I—; well with the one I did not love down to the very soles of his feet.””
Mary explains to Reginald that she had to follow social expectations and accompany the man she didn't love, despite her desire to be with him.
Illustrates the constraints placed on women in romantic and social choices.