The Vicar of Bullhampton · Chapter
The Vicar's Vengeance explained
Mr.
What happens
Mr. Fenwick, despite pleas from his wife and the Squire, remains resolute in his decision regarding the chapel built on glebe land. He consults Mr. Chamberlaine in Salisbury, who argues forcefully for the chapel's removal, but Fenwick is not swayed, believing he cannot in good conscience force the removal of a house of prayer. Upon returning, he informs the dissenter Mr. Bolt that the congregation may stay for now. Meanwhile, the Marquis of Trowbridge receives Fenwick's letter in London and is consumed with wrath and disbelief, eventually seeking legal advice from Messrs. Boothby.
Themes in this chapter
Religious Conflict and Toleration
The central conflict revolves around the Vicar's moral dilemma over whether to enforce the removal of a dissenting chapel built on glebe land, highlighting tensions between Church authority and religious toleration.
Hypocrisy and Moral Courage
Fenwick's refusal to demolish the chapel despite legal and social pressure demonstrates moral courage, while the Marquis's reaction reveals his pride and unwillingness to admit error.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Fenwick
The Vicar remains steadfast in his decision not to forcibly remove the chapel, despite pressure from his wife, the Squire, and Mr. Chamberlaine.
- Harry Gilmore
The Squire accompanies Fenwick to Salisbury and urges him to consult Mr. Chamberlaine, but is unable to change Fenwick's mind.
- Janet Fenwick
Mrs. Fenwick argues that her husband has already made up his mind and that the trip to Salisbury is futile.
- Mr. Chamberlaine
The prebendary argues eloquently and forcefully for the chapel's removal, but fails to shake the Vicar's resolve.
- Lord Trowbridge
The Marquis receives Fenwick's letter in London and is filled with rage, eventually deciding to consult his family lawyers.
Key passages
“The glebe of Bullhampton, Mr. Fenwick, has not been confided to your care for the propagation of dissent.”
Mr. Chamberlaine argues that the Vicar's duty is to uphold the established Church, not to allow dissent to flourish on Church land.
This encapsulates the legal and religious argument against tolerating the chapel.
“I could let the bit of land, I have no doubt—though not on a building lease. But that which I can answer with my purse, need not lie upon my conscience.”
Fenwick acknowledges he might be financially liable but insists his conscience will not allow him to force the chapel's removal.
Highlights Fenwick's moral stance over legal obligation.