The History of Henry Esmond · Chapter
II: I Go Home, and Harp on the Old String explained
Colonel Esmond returns to London bearing news of Frank Castlewood's secret marriage to a Roman Catholic lady, Mademoiselle de Wertheim.
What happens
Colonel Esmond returns to London bearing news of Frank Castlewood's secret marriage to a Roman Catholic lady, Mademoiselle de Wertheim. He visits Lady Castlewood, who reveals she has learned of his true inheritance and insists on calling him 'my lord.' Esmond reflects on his unrequited devotion to Beatrix, engaging in philosophical banter with Henry St. John about ambition and love. He reconciles Lady Castlewood to Frank's marriage, and she writes a gentle letter of acceptance, though she worries her frugal stewardship has weakened her hold on her son.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Duty
Esmond's devotion to Beatrix and his sense of duty to Lady Castlewood and Frank are central; his love is portrayed as a consuming passion akin to a knight's quest.
Family and Kinship
The chapter explores family bonds through Frank's marriage, Lady Castlewood's stewardship, and Esmond's role as a trusted intermediary.
Honor and Sacrifice
Esmond's willingness to sacrifice for his loved ones is highlighted, as is Lady Castlewood's selfless management of the estate for Frank's benefit.
Characters to notice
- Henry Esmond
Returns to London as bearer of Frank's marriage news; reflects on his love for Beatrix and debates ambition with St. John.
- Lady Castlewood
Learns of Frank's marriage; insists on calling Esmond 'my lord'; writes a gentle letter to her new daughter-in-law.
- Frank Castlewood
Married Mademoiselle de Wertheim in Brussels; writes to Esmond to break the news and ask for rents.
- Beatrix Esmond
Absent at Windsor; described as the ruler of the household and engaged in town pleasures.
- Henry St. John
Debates with Esmond about ambition and love; mocks Esmond's devotion to Beatrix.
- Father Holt
Mentioned as having performed Frank's marriage ceremony at St. Gudule.
Key passages
“Had Esmond possessed the Great Mogul's crown and all his diamonds, or all the Duke of Marlborough's money, or all the ingots sunk at Vigo, he would have given them all for this woman.”
Esmond would trade any wealth or treasure for the woman he loves.
Illustrates the depth of Esmond's devotion to Beatrix.
“I am Diogenes, that is taken up for a ride in Alexander's chariot. I have no desire to vanquish Darius or to tame Bucephalus.”
Esmond compares himself to Diogenes, content with his simple pursuit of love, unlike St. John's ambitious schemes.
Highlights Esmond's self-awareness and philosophical stance on ambition.
“But in saving my son's fortune, I fear I have lost a great part of my hold on him.”
Lady Castlewood worries that her careful management of the estate has alienated Frank.
Reveals the tension between maternal care and a child's desire for independence.