The Vicar of Bullhampton · Chapter
At the Mill explained
Carry Brattle is required to travel to Salisbury for the trial of John Burrows and Lawrence Acorn.
What happens
Carry Brattle is required to travel to Salisbury for the trial of John Burrows and Lawrence Acorn. The miller, George Brattle, decides to accompany her, causing Carry great anxiety due to his coldness. On the morning of departure, Carry makes a timid effort to reconcile with her father. Sam Brattle unexpectedly arrives, offering to work the mill and delaying his own appearance at the trial. The miller, though gruff, shows a hint of softening when he gives Carry a cushion.
Themes in this chapter
Family Duty and Forgiveness
The miller's decision to accompany Carry, despite his coldness, and his small gesture of giving her a cushion hint at the possibility of reconciliation.
Justice and Prejudice
Carry's fear of the trial and the legal system's demands on witnesses reflect the harshness of justice for the poor and fallen.
Characters to notice
- Carry Brattle
Dreads being alone with her father during the journey to Salisbury; makes a quiet attempt to reconcile with him.
- George Brattle
Decides to accompany Carry to Salisbury; remains stern but shows a slight softening by giving her a cushion.
- Fanny Brattle
Supports her sister and encourages her to be patient with their father.
- Sam Brattle
Arrives unexpectedly at the mill, offers to work during his father's absence, and plans to delay his own appearance at the trial.
- Mrs. Brattle
Observes the family dynamics and is pleased by Sam's return and the miller's subtle change.
- Mr. Fenwick
Arranges accommodation for Carry and the miller at Mrs. Stiggs' house in Salisbury.
Key passages
“The presence of Carry Brattle was required in Salisbury for the trial of John Burrows and Lawrence Acorn on Wednesday the 22nd of August.”
Carry Brattle had to go to Salisbury on August 22nd for the trial of John Burrows and Lawrence Acorn.
Sets the legal context for the chapter.
“To be alone with her father for two, three, or perhaps four days, seemed to her to be so terrible, that she hardly knew how to face the misery and gloom of his company”
Carry was terrified at the prospect of spending several days alone with her father, dreading his silent hostility.
Highlights Carry's emotional distress.
“It was the first time that he had called her by her name, and it was not lost on the poor girl.”
The miller called Carry by her name for the first time, a small but significant gesture that she noticed.
Marks a turning point in their relationship.