# XVII: The Siege explained — The Clever Woman of the Family

> Chapter companion for The Clever Woman of the Family by Charlotte M. Yonge.

## What happens

Rachel faces mounting doubts about Mr. Mauleverer's integrity as Alick Keith exposes the fraudulent woodcuts, revealing that the illustrations were pasted from the Illustrated London News. Despite her initial resistance, Rachel is forced to confront the deception, while various visitors—including Mrs. Rossitur, Mrs. Kelland, and the Keiths—add to the turmoil surrounding the F.U.E.E. project.

## Themes in this chapter

### Deception and the Perils of Naivety

Rachel's trust in Mauleverer is shattered as the fraudulent woodcuts are exposed, highlighting the dangers of blind faith.

### Female Agency and the Search for a Mission

Rachel's determination to lead the F.U.E.E. is undermined by the deception, challenging her sense of purpose.

## Character check-ins

### Rachel Curtis

Confronts the evidence of Mauleverer's fraud, experiencing a painful awakening from her trust.

### Alick Keith

Systematically proves the woodcuts are pasted, showing gravity and responsibility in his victory.

### Ermine Williams

Witnesses the unmasking, expressing sorrow and sympathy for Rachel's disillusionment.

### Grace Curtis

Handles Mrs. Rossitur's visit and attempts to soothe Rachel's distress.

### Colonel Keith

Recognizes the woodcut figure from his travels, adding to the suspicion.

## Key lines

> I am very, very sorry,” said Ermine. “I do not know that it is come to that yet,” said Rachel, trying to collect herself.

Ermine expresses regret, but Rachel is not ready to accept the full extent of the betrayal.

_Rachel's initial denial of the deception._

> But it is a deception! A deception! Oh! he need not have done it!

Rachel exclaims in shock, realizing the woodcut is a fraud.

_The moment of revelation._

> There is a great deal of dignity in the strict justice of a mind slow to condemn, or to withdraw the trust once given.

Alick praises Rachel's measured response to the evidence.

_Alick's respect for Rachel's character._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_clever_woman_of_the_family_se/chapters/xvii-the-siege
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_clever_woman_of_the_family_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_clever_woman_of_the_family_se/chapters