# Likewise the Bears in Couples Agree explained — The Eustace Diamonds

> Chapter companion for The Eustace Diamonds by Anthony Trollope.

## What happens

Frank Greystock remains at Portray but declines to hunt, instead walking with Mr. Emilius, who probes about Lizzie's income. Meanwhile, Lucinda Roanoke finally accepts Sir Griffin Tewett's marriage proposal after being pressured by Mrs. Carbuncle, though she privately confesses she hates him. The chapter contrasts the transactional nature of the engagement with the romantic ideal of couples agreeing like bears.

## Themes in this chapter

### Marriage as Transaction

Lucinda's engagement to Sir Griffin is driven by Mrs. Carbuncle's ambition for a titled match, despite Lucinda's hatred of him.

### Social Climbing and Ambition

Mrs. Carbuncle's relentless push for Lucinda to marry a baronet exemplifies social climbing; Mr. Emilius's inquiries about Lizzie's income also reflect ambition.

### Deception and Perjury

Lucinda acknowledges she will have to lie to Sir Griffin, highlighting the theme of deception in relationships.

## Character check-ins

### Lizzie Eustace

Offers Frank a horse; is good-natured about Miss Macnulty's supposed romance; her enthusiasm for hunting has cooled slightly.

### Frank Greystock

Stays at Portray but refuses to hunt; walks with Mr. Emilius and gives vague answers about Portray's income.

### Mr. Emilius

Shows keen interest in Lizzie's financial situation; is rumored to be courting Miss Macnulty.

### Lucinda Roanoke

Accepts Sir Griffin Tewett's proposal in Sarkie wood, but privately confesses she hates him.

### Mrs. Carbuncle

Orchestrates Lucinda's engagement; speaks with Sir Griffin to confirm the match and reassures herself with the song about bears.

### Sir Griffin Tewett

Proposes again to Lucinda and is accepted; behaves bearishly and later doubts his decision.

## Key lines

> Likewise the Bears in Couples Agree

Even bears pair up together, just like other animals.

_The chapter title alludes to a song Mrs. Carbuncle uses to console herself about the rough engagement between Lucinda and Sir Griffin._

> I hate a good many people; but of all the people in the world I hate Sir Griffin Tewett the worst.

Lucinda confesses her intense dislike for Sir Griffin, despite accepting his proposal.

_Reveals the grim reality behind the transactional engagement._

## Links

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