# XL: “And Then!” explained — The Duke’s Children

> Chapter companion for The Duke’s Children by Anthony Trollope.

## What happens

Silverbridge and Isabel Boncassen discuss his declaration of love. She asks him to consult his friends and wait three months before pursuing her. Later, she takes him aside and reiterates her request, revealing her humble American origins. Meanwhile, Silverbridge walks with Lady Mabel Grex, who returns the ring he had given her and advises him to give it only to his future wife.

## Themes in this chapter

### Social Class and Aristocracy

Isabel contrasts her grandfather's labourer origins and her mother's lack of 'lady' status with Silverbridge's aristocratic position, questioning her fitness to be a duchess.

### Love vs. Duty

Silverbridge's love for Isabel conflicts with social expectations; Isabel insists he consult his family and wait three months before pursuing a relationship.

## Character check-ins

### Lord Silverbridge

Declares his love to Isabel Boncassen and agrees to wait three months for her answer. Later walks with Lady Mabel Grex, who returns his ring.

### Isabel Boncassen

Responds to Silverbridge's declaration by asking him to wait three months and consult his friends. Reveals her grandfather was a Dutch labourer in New York.

### Lady Mabel Grex

Walks with Silverbridge to the waterfall, returns the ring he gave her, and advises him to give it only to his future wife.

### Mrs. Montacute Jones

Hosts the gathering at Killancodlem; Isabel sits near her at lunch.

## Key lines

> My father’s father came to New York as a labourer from Holland, and worked upon the quays in that city. Then he built houses, and became rich, and was almost a miser;⁠—with the good sense, however, to educate his only son.

Isabel explains that her grandfather was a Dutch immigrant who labored on the New York docks, later became wealthy through building houses, and wisely ensured his son received an education.

_Isabel reveals her family's humble origins to justify her doubts about becoming a duchess._

> Go to your friends and ask them. Ask that Lady Mabel;⁠—ask your father;⁠—ask that Lady Cantrip. And above all, ask yourself. And allow me to require you to take three months to do this. Do not come to see me for three months.

Isabel tells Silverbridge to seek advice from Lady Mabel, his father, and Lady Cantrip, and to reflect on his own feelings, demanding a three-month separation before any further discussion.

_Isabel sets conditions for Silverbridge to prove his commitment._

> There is only one person to whom you must give it. Your wife;⁠—or to her who is to become your wife. No other woman can be justified in accepting such a present.

Lady Mabel returns the ring to Silverbridge, insisting it should only be given to his future wife.

_Mabel firmly rejects the ring and clarifies its proper purpose._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_duke_s_children_se/chapters/xl-and-then
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_duke_s_children_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_duke_s_children_se/chapters