The Last Chronicle of Barset · Chapter
It's Dogged as Does It explained
Mr.
What happens
Mr. Crawley receives a letter from Dr. Tempest summoning him to appear before a clerical commission regarding the cheque for twenty pounds. Despite his wife's concern, he refuses to discuss it and retreats to Hoggle End. Later, he meets with Dr. Tempest, who urges him to consider his family's welfare, but Crawley insists his duty as a clergyman is paramount, repeating the phrase 'It's dogged as does it.'
Themes in this chapter
Clergy and Morality
Mr. Crawley's insistence on his clerical duty above all else, even at the expense of his family's welfare, highlights the tension between personal morality and professional obligation.
Poverty and Suffering
The Crawley family faces ruin and disgrace, with Mrs. Crawley's silent acceptance of her husband's moods reflecting their ongoing hardship.
Pride and Humility
Mr. Crawley's stubborn refusal to accept help or consider his family's needs demonstrates a prideful adherence to his own sense of duty, even as he faces potential humiliation.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Crawley
Receives Dr. Tempest's letter and struggles with his conscience, ultimately insisting on his duty over family concerns.
- Dr. Tempest
Writes to Mr. Crawley on behalf of the clerical commission and later tries to persuade him to consider his family's welfare.
Key passages
“It's dogged as does it.”
Perseverance and determination are what get things done.
Mr. Crawley repeats this phrase to himself, drawing strength from the idea of stubborn persistence in the face of adversity.
“I do not dare, even for their sake, to remain in the parish.”
I cannot stay in the parish, even for my family's sake.
Mr. Crawley tells Dr. Tempest that his clerical duty compels him to leave, regardless of the consequences for his wife and children.