The American Senator · Chapter
Lord Rufford Wants to See a Horse explained
Arabella returns to Mistletoe with Lord Rufford in a postchaise, causing scandal.
What happens
Arabella returns to Mistletoe with Lord Rufford in a postchaise, causing scandal. The Duchess confronts Arabella about the impropriety, but Arabella insists they are engaged. The Duchess and Duke struggle to address the situation. Lord Rufford, feeling trapped, makes an early departure under the pretext of seeing a horse, leaving Arabella to continue her pursuit.
Themes in this chapter
Marriage and Financial Necessity
Arabella's pursuit of Lord Rufford is driven by the need for a wealthy marriage, as seen in her insistence on the engagement despite the scandal.
Hypocrisy and Moral Complexity
The Duchess and Duke are concerned with appearances and propriety, yet they are willing to overlook the scandal if a marriage results, showing moral flexibility.
Characters to notice
- Arabella Trefoil
Returns from hunting with Lord Rufford in a postchaise, insists on their engagement, and plans to pursue him after his sudden departure.
- Lord Rufford
Avoids commitment by leaving early to see a horse, using Captain Battersby to make excuses to the Duchess.
- Lady Augustus Trefoil
Mentioned as Arabella's mother, whom Arabella plans to join in London.
- Duchess of Omnium
Criticizes Arabella's behavior and attempts to get Lord Rufford to declare his intentions.
- Captain Battersby
Lord Rufford's friend who helps him arrange his early departure.
Key passages
“Lord Rufford had been quite right about the Duchess. Arabella had only taken off her hat and was drinking her tea when the Duchess came up to her.”
The Duchess immediately confronted Arabella about her return with Lord Rufford.
Shows the Duchess's concern over propriety.
“It is going to be all right,' said Arabella laughing.”
Arabella dismisses the Duchess's concerns, claiming the engagement will make everything acceptable.
Highlights Arabella's confidence and manipulation.
“Lord Rufford is about the silliest man of his day,' she said afterwards to the same lady; 'but there is one thing which I do not think even he is silly enough to do.'”
The Duchess of Omnium implies Lord Rufford is not foolish enough to marry Arabella.
Reflects the skepticism of high society regarding the engagement.