The American Senator · Chapter
It Cannot Be Arranged explained
Reginald Morton, upon receiving his aunt Lady Ushant's letter, understands that Mr.
What happens
Reginald Morton, upon receiving his aunt Lady Ushant's letter, understands that Mr. Twentyman is the suitor causing Mary Masters' discomfort at home. He deeply admires Mary's character and rejects the idea of her marrying a farmer like Twentyman. He visits the Masters' house to propose Mary's return to Cheltenham, but Mrs. Masters vehemently refuses, accusing Mary of deceit and stubbornness. The confrontation escalates in front of Reginald, leaving Mary humiliated and heartbroken.
Themes in this chapter
Love vs. Practicality
Reginald Morton admires Mary's character and rejects the idea of her marrying for practical reasons like Twentyman's farm, while Mrs. Masters pushes for the marriage as a practical necessity.
Rural Life and Community
The setting in the attorney's house and the contrast between the squalid living conditions and Mary's refined character highlight the constraints of rural life.
Hypocrisy and Moral Complexity
Mrs. Masters accuses Mary of deceit while herself scheming to force a marriage, and Reginald's own unacknowledged feelings for Mary add moral complexity.
Characters to notice
- Reginald Morton
Receives his aunt's letter, understands the situation with Mary and Twentyman, and admires Mary's character deeply. He visits the Masters' house to propose Mary's return to Cheltenham but is rebuffed by Mrs. Masters.
- Mary Masters
Is the subject of the dispute; she wrote to Lady Ushant for help escaping her suitor. She is humiliated when her stepmother confronts her in front of Reginald Morton.
- Lady Ushant
Sent a letter via Reginald Morton inviting Mary to return to Cheltenham, which Mrs. Masters opposes.
- Mr. Masters
Is out walking with Mary but not present during the confrontation; his retreating form is seen entering the Bush.
- Mrs. Masters
Fiercely opposes Mary's return to Cheltenham, accuses Mary of deceit and stubbornness, and argues with Reginald Morton.
- Lawrence Twentyman
Mentioned as the suitor Mary rejected; his absence is noted by Mrs. Masters, who still hopes to force the marriage.
Key passages
“It cannot be arranged.”
Mrs. Masters flatly refuses Lady Ushant's request for Mary to visit Cheltenham.
This phrase is the chapter title and encapsulates the central conflict.
“There was a poem to be read there of surpassing beauty, rhythmical and eloquent as the music of the spheres, if it might only be given to a man to read it.”
Reginald sees Mary's inner depth and beauty as something almost mystical and inaccessible.
Reflects Reginald's idealized view of Mary.
“She’s obstinate and pigheaded, that’s the truth of it.”
Mrs. Masters accuses Mary of being stubborn and unreasonable.
Shows Mrs. Masters' harsh judgment and her determination to control Mary.