The Last Chronicle of Barset · Chapter
Why Don’t You Have an “It” for Yourself? explained
Lily Dale and Emily Dunstable grow close during their stay in London, with Mrs.
What happens
Lily Dale and Emily Dunstable grow close during their stay in London, with Mrs. Thorne's lavish hospitality providing Lily with a horse and riding habit. The squire, uncomfortable with accepting such generosity, attempts to speak to Mrs. Thorne about paying for Lily's expenses. Meanwhile, Lily reflects on John Eames, hearing him praised in connection with the Crawley case, and begins to see him in a new light, though she remains conflicted. Emily's happiness with Bernard Dale makes Lily envious.
Themes in this chapter
Social Class and Reputation
The squire's discomfort with accepting Mrs. Thorne's gifts reflects anxieties about social standing and financial independence.
Love and Marriage
Emily Dunstable's happiness with Bernard Dale contrasts with Lily's unresolved feelings for John Eames.
Gossip and Public Opinion
The Crawley case is discussed frequently, and John Eames is praised, influencing Lily's perception of him.
Characters to notice
- Lily Dale
Stays with her uncle in London, grows intimate with Emily Dunstable, accepts Mrs. Thorne's hospitality reluctantly, and thinks increasingly about John Eames.
- Emily Dunstable
Betrothed to Bernard Dale, becomes close friends with Lily, and enjoys ante-nuptial happiness.
- Mrs. Thorne
Generous hostess who provides Lily with a horse and habit, and discusses the Crawley case and John Eames.
- Johnny Eames
Praised by Mrs. Thorne for his role in the Crawley case; Lily's opinion of him rises.
- Bernard Dale
Betrothed to Emily Dunstable, rides with the ladies, and declines to help the squire with the horse matter.
- Mr. Dale
The squire, uncomfortable with Mrs. Thorne's generosity, decides to speak to her about Lily's horse.
Key passages
“Of course it came to pass that Lily Dale and Emily Dunstable were soon very intimate, and that they saw each other every day.”
Lily and Emily quickly became close friends and met daily.
Highlights the rapid development of their friendship.
“Things were not offered and taken and talked about, but they made their appearance, and were used as a matter of course.”
Mrs. Thorne provided gifts and services without formal discussion, as if they were natural.
Illustrates Mrs. Thorne's generous and unpretentious style of hospitality.
“I do envy you, Lily said one day.”
Lily admitted she envied Emily's happiness.
Shows Lily's longing for a similar romantic fulfillment.