The American Senator · Chapter
The Rufford Correspondence explained
This chapter presents the correspondence between Arabella Trefoil and Lord Rufford following her departure from Rufford Hall.
What happens
This chapter presents the correspondence between Arabella Trefoil and Lord Rufford following her departure from Rufford Hall. Lord Rufford writes to inform her of Major Caneback's death and his plans to avoid the funeral by visiting Surbiton's for Christmas. Arabella responds with a carefully crafted letter designed to maintain his interest, hinting at her desire to see him at Mistletoe. Lord Rufford's subsequent letter focuses on hunting and suggests he may not visit Mistletoe, causing Arabella anxiety as she has already secured her invitation there.
Themes in this chapter
Marriage and Financial Necessity
Arabella's pursuit of Lord Rufford is driven by financial desperation, as she lacks means to pay for hats and gloves, and her letters are calculated to secure a wealthy match.
Love vs. Practicality
Arabella's correspondence is devoid of genuine affection; she manipulates Lord Rufford's interest for practical gain, while he remains wary of commitment.
Hypocrisy and Moral Complexity
Arabella's letter contains multiple falsehoods (about her location, her mother's state, and her invitation to Mistletoe), highlighting the deceit inherent in her social maneuvering.
Characters to notice
- Arabella Trefoil
Crafts a strategic reply to Lord Rufford's letter, using flattery and falsehoods to maintain his interest and secure a meeting at Mistletoe.
- Lord Rufford
Writes to Arabella about Major Caneback's death and his hunting plans, showing awareness of her pursuit but continuing the correspondence.
- Major Caneback
Dies at Rufford Hall after a hunting accident; his death is a central topic in Lord Rufford's first letter.
- Lady Augustus Trefoil
Mentioned as being asleep (falsely) while Arabella writes her letter; she is managing their travel arrangements.
- Lord Augustus
Reluctantly assists Arabella by asking the Duke of Omnium to invite her to Mistletoe.
- Duchess of Omnium
Agrees to host Arabella at Mistletoe after the Duke's request.
- Senator Gotobed
Mentioned by Lord Rufford in connection with the poisoned fox case.
- Sir John Purefoy
Blamed by Lord Rufford for sending the mare that caused Major Caneback's accident.
Key passages
“The odds against Miss Trefoil were of course great;—but girls have won even against such odds as these.”
Although the chances of Arabella succeeding in marrying Lord Rufford were slim, some women have overcome similar obstacles.
Narrator's commentary on Arabella's determination despite the difficulty of her goal.
“There was a great deal in this letter which was not true. But then such ladies as Miss Trefoil can never afford to tell the truth.”
Arabella's letter contained many falsehoods, but women in her position cannot risk being honest.
Narrator's observation on the necessity of deception for women seeking advantageous marriages.