The Duke’s Children · Chapter
Miss Boncassen's Idea of Heaven explained
At Custins, Isabel Boncassen confides in Lady Mary Palliser that Lord Silverbridge has proposed to her, while Dolly Longstaff's earnest but rejected suit leads him to leave abruptly.
What happens
At Custins, Isabel Boncassen confides in Lady Mary Palliser that Lord Silverbridge has proposed to her, while Dolly Longstaff's earnest but rejected suit leads him to leave abruptly. Isabel reflects on her love for Silverbridge and her hope to win over his family.
Themes in this chapter
Love vs. Duty
Isabel grapples with her love for Silverbridge and the duty to consider his family's acceptance; Dolly's earnest love is rejected.
Social Class and Aristocracy
Isabel's ambition to be a Duchess and the Duke's courteous but distant interactions highlight class distinctions.
American vs. British Values
Mr. Boncassen and the Duke debate republicanism versus monarchy; Isabel contrasts American marriage customs with British settlements.
Characters to notice
- Isabel Boncassen
Confesses to Lady Mary that Silverbridge has proposed; reflects on her love and ambition to be accepted by his family.
- Lady Mary Palliser
Becomes intimate with Isabel and is astonished to learn of Silverbridge's proposal.
- Dolly Longstaff
Earnestly in love with Isabel but is rejected; leaves Custins in despair after she walks out on him.
- Lord Popplecourt
Advises Dolly but makes little progress in his own suit with Lady Mary.
- The Duke of Omnium
Converses courteously with Isabel and her father; unaware of Silverbridge's courtship.
- Mr. Boncassen
Discusses republicanism with the Duke; fond of Scandinavian poets.
- Lady Cantrip
Nervous about Lady Mary's intimacy with Isabel; speaks to the Duke and Popplecourt about Mary.
Key passages
“She was still of opinion that it would not become her to force her way into a family which would endeavour to repudiate her.”
Isabel believed she should not marry into a family that would reject her.
Reflects Isabel's pride and concern about family acceptance.
“What can you do when a girl walks out of the room and slams the door in your face?”
Dolly laments that Isabel's rejection leaves him no recourse.
Shows Dolly's despair after his proposal is rebuffed.
“I do not think that Lady Mary will bestow her heart till she is sure she can give it with safety.”
Lady Cantrip suggests Mary will only commit when she feels secure.
Highlights Mary's cautious nature and Lady Cantrip's protective role.