The Moonstone · Chapter
Seventh Narrative explained
Mr.
What happens
Mr. Candy writes to Franklin Blake to inform him of Ezra Jennings's death. Jennings died in Candy's arms at sunrise, having refused to let Candy warn Blake. He requested that his papers be buried with him, except for the diary pages concerning Blake, which he left for Blake. He also insisted on an unmarked grave. Candy reflects on Jennings's character and reports the rumor of Blake's upcoming marriage to Rachel Verinder.
Themes in this chapter
The Curse and Fate
Ezra Jennings's insistence on dying forgotten and unknown, and his request for a nameless grave, echo the theme of inescapable fate and the curse of obscurity.
Religion and Morality
Jennings's final moments include prayer, a blessing for Franklin Blake, and a peaceful death marked by the word 'Peace,' suggesting a moral and spiritual resolution.
Characters to notice
- Ezra Jennings
Dies in Mr. Candy's arms; leaves diary pages for Franklin Blake; requests an unmarked grave and that his papers be buried with him.
- Mr. Candy
Writes the letter to Franklin Blake; was present at Jennings's death; describes Jennings's final hours and his own loneliness after the loss.
- Franklin Blake
Recipient of the letter; Jennings's diary pages are sealed and waiting for him; rumor of his marriage to Rachel Verinder is reported.
- Rachel Verinder
Mentioned as the intended bride of Franklin Blake in the marriage rumor; Mr. Candy sends his good wishes to her.
Key passages
“He died in my arms, at sunrise, on Wednesday last.”
Ezra Jennings passed away in Mr. Candy's embrace at dawn on the previous Wednesday.
Describes the moment of Jennings's death.
“Let me sleep, nameless. Let me rest, unknown.”
Allow me to be buried without a name, and to remain unrecognized in death.
Jennings's request for an unmarked grave.
“He cried out three times, “Peace! peace! peace!””
He exclaimed 'Peace' three times in his final moments.
Jennings's last words, indicating a serene end.