The Duke’s Children · Chapter
The New Member for Silverbridge explained
Lord Silverbridge travels to the borough of Silverbridge to present himself as the Conservative candidate for Parliament.
What happens
Lord Silverbridge travels to the borough of Silverbridge to present himself as the Conservative candidate for Parliament. He is accompanied by his friend Frank Tregear and, to his later regret, Major Tifto. The chapter details his meetings with local political figures, including Mr. Walker and Dr. Tempest, and his unopposed election. After being declared the new MP, he makes a brief, somewhat awkward speech and writes a letter to his father, the Duke of Omnium, expressing regret for their political differences.
Themes in this chapter
Political Ideology and Public Life
The chapter centers on Silverbridge's entry into Parliament as a Conservative, his political coming-of-age, and the local reactions to his break from the family's Liberal tradition.
Parental Authority and Rebellion
Silverbridge's decision to stand as a Conservative despite his father's Liberal legacy is a form of political rebellion, though he seeks to maintain his father's respect and writes a conciliatory letter.
Characters to notice
- Lord Silverbridge
The new Conservative candidate for Silverbridge; he visits the borough, meets local politicians, is elected unopposed, and writes to his father.
- Frank Tregear
Accompanies Silverbridge to Silverbridge and assists in smoothing over political awkwardness with Mr. Du Boung.
- Major Tifto
Invited by Silverbridge to accompany him to Silverbridge, though Silverbridge later regrets the choice; Tifto is more associated with racing than politics.
- The Duke of Omnium
Silverbridge's father; mentioned as having previously represented Silverbridge and as the recipient of Silverbridge's letter after the election.
- Mr. Walker
An old attorney and Liberal in Silverbridge who had proposed the Duke of Omnium for Parliament; he agrees to propose Silverbridge despite political differences.
- Mr. Du Boung
A Liberal politician who initially intended to stand for Silverbridge but retired in favor of Lord Silverbridge; he seeks recognition for his sacrifice.
- Mr. Sprugeon
A local political figure who helps organize Silverbridge's visit and smooths over tensions with Mr. Du Boung.
- Mr. Sprout
Another local politician involved in arranging Silverbridge's candidacy and meetings.
Key passages
“Lord Silverbridge was informed that it would be right that he should go down to Silverbridge a few days before the election, to make himself known to the electors.”
Silverbridge was advised to visit the borough ahead of the election to introduce himself to the voters.
Sets up the purpose of the chapter's journey.
“The borough had been supposed to be a Liberal as a matter of course—because the Pallisers were Liberals.”
The borough had traditionally been Liberal simply because the Palliser family was Liberal.
Explains the historical political alignment of Silverbridge.
“My dear Father, I am Member of Parliament for Silverbridge—as you used to be in the days which I can first remember. I hope you won't think that it does not make me unhappy to have differed from you.”
Silverbridge writes to his father, announcing his election and expressing regret for their political disagreement.
Highlights the personal and political tension between father and son.
