The Cloven Foot · Chapter
XIX: “To a Deep Lawny Dell They Came” explained
In June, Laura Treverton maintains a hopeful exterior despite her husband John's absence.
What happens
In June, Laura Treverton maintains a hopeful exterior despite her husband John's absence. She tends to the estate, hoping for his return. John confesses to a past Scotch marriage and proposes a second marriage in a remote location to secure their union. Laura agrees, trusting him, though she struggles with doubt. The chapter explores her love, patience, and the weight of secrecy.
Themes in this chapter
Secrets and Deception
John's confession of a past Scotch marriage and the plan for a secret second marriage highlight themes of hidden truths and deception.
Love and Marriage
Laura's unwavering love and willingness to undergo a second marriage underscore the complexities of love and marital bonds.
Gender and Moral Agency
Laura's agency in forgiving John and agreeing to the secret marriage reflects her moral strength within societal constraints.
Characters to notice
- Laura Malcolm
Laura is hopeful yet troubled, managing the estate and awaiting John's return. She agrees to a second marriage after his confession.
- John Treverton
John confesses his past Scotch marriage to Laura and proposes a secret second marriage in Camelot to secure their union.
- Celia Clare
Celia is critical of John and expresses indignation at his absence, contrasting with Laura's hopefulness.
Key passages
“I got myself entrapped into a Scotch marriage. You have heard of the peculiarities of the marriage law in Scotland.”
John explains that he was tricked into an irregular marriage under Scottish law.
John reveals the legal loophole that entangled him.
“Let it be as if it had never been. The second marriage which I ask for is a precautionary act—needless, perhaps—but it will make me feel more secure in my happiness.”
John asks Laura to forget his past and agrees to a second wedding for reassurance.
John seeks to erase his past mistake through a new ceremony.
“I must have been dreadfully weak-minded, for I really think I fell in love with him at first sight.”
Laura reflects that she likely fell in love with John the moment she saw him.
Laura acknowledges her immediate attraction to John.