Confidence explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Deception and Perjury

  Lizzie's confession reveals her perjury at Carlisle and the ongoing deception about the diamonds' whereabouts.

• Property and Ownership

  The central conflict over who legally owns the diamonds, with Lizzie insisting they are hers despite the Chancery lawsuit.

• Gender and Power

  Lizzie's dependence on Lord George for protection and guidance highlights the power imbalance between men and women in Victorian society.

Characters to notice

• Lizzie Eustace

  Confesses to Lord George that she has the diamonds hidden in her desk and pleads for his help, revealing her fear and dependence.

• Lord George de Bruce Carruthers

  Learns the truth about the diamonds and struggles with what to do, torn between protecting Lizzie and avoiding legal peril.

• Frank Greystock

  Mentioned as Lizzie's cousin and a lawyer whose opinion she cites regarding the diamonds being her own.

• Mr. Camperdown

  Referenced as the lawyer pursuing the diamonds on behalf of the Eustace estate.

• Mr. Benjamin

  Mentioned as a potential buyer for the diamonds, but Lord George warns he cannot be trusted.

Key passages

• “I’ll never give them up to Mr. Camperdown. They are mine;—my very own. My cousin, Mr. Greystock, who is much more of a lawyer than Mr. Camperdown, says so.”

  Lizzie insists she will never surrender the diamonds to Mr. Camperdown, claiming they are rightfully hers and citing her cousin Frank Greystock's legal opinion.

  Lizzie's defiance and reliance on Frank's authority to justify her claim.

• “You will be true to me;—will you not? ... Oh, George, I have no friend now but you. You will care for me?”

  Lizzie pleads for Lord George's loyalty and care, expressing her isolation and dependence on him.

  Lizzie's emotional appeal underscores her vulnerability and need for a protector.