# XXXV explained — The Ladies Lindores

> Chapter companion for The Ladies Lindores by Margaret Oliphant.

## What happens

Mr. Monypenny and Rolls discuss the dire situation following Patrick Torrance's death, with Rolls expressing deep concern for his sister Bauby and his loyalty to the Erskine family. Mr. Monypenny then visits John Erskine, who is imprisoned and struggling with feelings of betrayal by his friends and the community, while Mr. Monypenny advises a plain statement of the facts.

## Themes in this chapter

### Appearance vs. Reality

The contrast between John Erskine's outward levity and his inner wounded feelings, as well as the discrepancy between the community's previous welcome and their current suspicion.

### Grief and Liberation

Rolls' solemnity and self-pity as he anticipates his sister Bauby's grief, and the broader atmosphere of mourning and anxiety surrounding Patrick Torrance's death.

## Character check-ins

### Mr. Monypenny

The family lawyer who is deeply troubled by John Erskine's arrest and the implications of Patrick Torrance's death. He advises a plain statement and drives to visit John.

### John Erskine

Imprisoned and struggling with indignation and wounded pride, feeling abandoned by his friends and community. He receives Mr. Monypenny's visit with initial levity before revealing his deeper distress.

### Mr. Rolls

The loyal butler who is deeply concerned about his sister Bauby and the Erskine family. He speaks solemnly with Mr. Monypenny about the situation and his duty.

### Patrick Torrance

Deceased; his death by falling over the Scaur is the central event under investigation, with suspicion falling on John Erskine.

### Mr. Beaufort

Mentioned as driving John's dogcart homeward, seen by Mr. Monypenny on his way to visit John.

## Key lines

> It’s a great drawback to a young lad, Mr. Monypenny—not to be brought up at hame.

Rolls argues that being raised away from home is a serious disadvantage for a young man.

_Rolls criticizes John Erskine's upbringing in England, suggesting it led to his current troubles._

> I cannot have my mind disturbed at this awfu’ moment, as ye say, with weemen and their ways.

Rolls refuses to return to Dalrulzian, saying he cannot be bothered with women's concerns at such a serious time.

_Rolls prioritizes his duty to his sister Bauby and his own solemn mission over household duties._

> Such a thing had not happened to any person of importance in the county since he could remember.

Mr. Monypenny reflects that no gentleman of the county has ever been arrested for a crime like this in his memory.

_Highlights the rarity and shock of John Erskine's imprisonment among the local gentry._

> Panic is just the worst policy. Panic looks like guilt.

Mr. Monypenny advises that acting out of fear makes one appear guilty, even if innocent.

_Mr. Monypenny's advice to John Erskine about the importance of a calm and honest statement._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_ladies_lindores_se/chapters/xxxv
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_ladies_lindores_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_ladies_lindores_se/chapters