# XXV: “And a Man’s Foes Shall Be They of His Own Household” explained — The Revolution in Tanner’s Lane

> Chapter companion for The Revolution in Tanner’s Lane by Mark Rutherford.

## What happens

George Allen is barred from his father-in-law's house after the election riots, and his wife Priscilla is caught between her family and her husband. The chapter details the escalating political tensions in Cowfold, the violent election day clashes between orange and purple factions, and Priscilla's sudden illness and death. George is left devastated, while the Broad family continues to spy on the Allens and Zachariah Coleman.

## Themes in this chapter

### Political Reform and Revolution

The election riots and George's canvassing work highlight the fierce struggle for political representation and the violent passions it arouses.

### Love and Marriage

Priscilla's devotion to George despite family opposition, and her dying declaration of love, underscore the personal cost of marital loyalty.

### Religion and Hypocrisy

The Reverend John Broad's secret inquiries about George and Zachariah's daughter, and the Broad family's spying, reveal the gap between pious profession and manipulative behavior.

### Suffering and Resilience

George endures rejection, political defeat, and the sudden death of his wife, yet continues to function; Priscilla bears her illness with quiet strength.

## Character check-ins

### George Allen

Barred from the Broad house after the riots; wanders the countryside; writes to Priscilla to return home; is with her when she dies.

### Priscilla Broad

Returns to George despite her parents' objections; falls ill with low fever; dies after a brief recovery, whispering her love to George.

### Thomas Broad

Refuses George entry to his house; writes to his father about the Allens' movements and about Zachariah's daughter.

### Reverend John Broad

Sends letters demanding surveillance of the Allens and inquiring about George's familiarity with Zachariah's daughter.

### Nurse Barton

Insists on staying to nurse Priscilla; comforts George and arranges for him to see his wife alone before her death.

### Zachariah Coleman

Mentioned as the unregenerate person the Allens visit; his daughter is noted for her attractiveness.

### Old Bushel

Seen waving his hat from the Angel window during the election riots; his gesture provokes the crowd.

### Mrs. Broad

Objects to Nurse Barton's presence; eventually leaves Priscilla's bedside at the doctor's insistence.

## Key lines

> He that has improved the virtue or advanced the happiness of one fellow-creature … may be contented with his own performance; and, with respect to mortals like himself, may demand, like Augustus, to be dismissed at his departure with applause.

If you have helped even one person, you can be satisfied with your life's work and ask to be honored when you die.

_George recalls this passage from Dr. Johnson's The Idler to console himself after the night's disappointments._

> I am a poor silly girl, but I always loved you.

I may be foolish and weak, but my love for you has never wavered.

_Priscilla's last words to George, whispered as she dies._

## Links

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