The Last Chronicle of Barset · Chapter
Madalina's Heart Is Bleeding explained
John Eames returns to London and visits his aunt Mrs.
What happens
John Eames returns to London and visits his aunt Mrs. Toogood, who complains about her husband's prolonged stay in Barchester and the expense. He then goes to see Madalina Demolines, who dramatically reveals that Dobbs Broughton has committed suicide. She also discusses Clara Van Siever's impending marriage to Musselboro and asks John to promise not to mention her to Lily Dale.
Themes in this chapter
Gossip and Public Opinion
Madalina Demolines revels in sharing the scandalous news of Dobbs Broughton's suicide and the financial ruin of his business.
Love and Marriage
Discussions of Clara Van Siever's marriage to Musselboro and Mrs. Dobbs Broughton's attachment to Conway Dalrymple highlight the intertwining of love and financial interest.
Characters to notice
- Johnny Eames
Returns to London, visits Mrs. Toogood, then goes to Madalina Demolines' house in the evening.
- Mrs. Toogood
Complains about her husband's absence and spending money in Barchester.
- Miss Demolines
Dramatically reveals Dobbs Broughton's suicide and discusses Clara Van Siever's marriage to Musselboro.
- Mrs. Dobbs Broughton
Mentioned as having given her heart to Conway Dalrymple after marrying Dobbs Broughton.
- Clara Van Siever
Reported to be marrying Augustus Musselboro.
- Augustus Musselboro
Mentioned as becoming rich and marrying Clara Van Siever.
Key passages
“Crawley is all right, and I think I've got the real Simon Pure by the heels.”
Mr. Crawley is cleared, and I believe I have caught the true culprit.
Mr. Toogood's triumphant message about the Crawley case.
“Man, he has destroyed himself!”
He committed suicide.
Madalina Demolines dramatically reveals Dobbs Broughton's suicide.
“My heart is bleeding—bleeding.”
I am deeply distressed.
Madalina's melodramatic expression of grief over Broughton's death.