The Last Chronicle of Barset · Chapter
By Heavens He Had Better Not! explained
The chapter introduces Major Grantly's romantic interest in Grace Crawley, which causes consternation among the Grantly family.
What happens
The chapter introduces Major Grantly's romantic interest in Grace Crawley, which causes consternation among the Grantly family. Archdeacon Grantly vehemently opposes the match, threatening to disinherit his son, while Mrs. Grantly is more pragmatic. The chapter also contrasts the Crawleys' poverty with the wealthy Thornes of Chaldicotes, and reveals the archdeacon's pride and disappointment.
Themes in this chapter
Social Class and Reputation
The archdeacon's horror at the prospect of his son marrying Grace Crawley stems from her low social standing and the perceived disgrace to the Grantly name.
Family and Duty
The archdeacon feels a duty to preserve the family's honor and expects his son to make a prudent match; Mrs. Grantly balances duty with maternal affection.
Pride and Humility
The archdeacon's pride is wounded by the thought of a Crawley connection, while the Crawleys are depicted as humble and pious.
Characters to notice
- Archdeacon Grantly
Furious at the prospect of his son marrying Grace Crawley, he threatens to cut off his income and refuses to receive the couple.
- Mrs. Grantly
More conciliatory than her husband, she argues that if the major marries Grace, the archdeacon will eventually forgive him.
- Major Grantly
A widower with a young daughter, he is considering marrying Grace Crawley despite his family's objections; he is a decorated veteran with independent means.
- Grace Crawley
The object of Major Grantly's affection, she is seen as poor and uneducated by the Grantlys and the county.
- Griselda Grantly
The archdeacon's daughter, now Marchioness of Hartletop, is present at the rectory and is consulted about the crisis.
- Emily Dunstable
A wealthy heiress and cousin of Mrs. Thorne, she was previously considered a suitable match for Major Grantly by his mother.
Key passages
“I think it would kill me... by heavens, I think it would be my death!”
The archdeacon dramatically declares that his son's marriage to Grace Crawley would be fatal to him.
Highlights the archdeacon's intense opposition and sense of personal injury.
“He had better not. By heavens, he had better not!”
The archdeacon warns that Major Grantly must not marry Grace Crawley, or face severe consequences.
Emphasizes the archdeacon's threat of disinheritance and his anger.
“It would be a positive disgrace, and I never would see him again.”
The archdeacon considers the marriage a shameful act and vows to cut off all contact with his son.
Shows the depth of the archdeacon's social prejudice and family pride.