The Vicar of Bullhampton · Chapter
Captain Marrable and His Father explained
This chapter introduces Captain Walter Marrable as a second hero of the story, contrasting him with Mr.
What happens
This chapter introduces Captain Walter Marrable as a second hero of the story, contrasting him with Mr. Gilmore. It details his strained relationship with his father, Colonel Marrable, who has defrauded him of his inheritance. Walter comes to stay with his uncle, Parson John Marrable, at Loring Lowtown, where he meets his cousin Mary Lowther. The chapter also provides an extensive genealogy of the Marrable family, explaining the connections between the various branches.
Themes in this chapter
Family Duty and Forgiveness
The chapter explores the fractured relationship between Captain Marrable and his father, Colonel Marrable, who has stolen his inheritance, leading to bitter accusations and estrangement.
Class and Social Power
The detailed genealogy of the Marrable family and the discussion of inheritance, property, and social standing highlight themes of class and the power dynamics within a landed gentry family.
Characters to notice
- Captain Walter Marrable
Introduced as a second hero; described as handsome but with a swarthy, fierce countenance. He has been robbed of his inheritance by his father and is staying with his uncle Parson John.
- Mary Lowther
Present at Loring; meets her cousin Walter Marrable for the first time since childhood. Miss Marrable mentions she may be engaged to a man in Wiltshire.
- Miss Marrable
Aunt Sarah; provides background on the Marrable family and expresses her opinions about Colonel Marrable and his son.
- Parson John Marrable
Uncle to Walter and Mary; a kindly, good-natured clergyman who hosts Walter at Loring Lowtown.
- Colonel Marrable
Walter's father; described as a wicked, debt-ridden man who has defrauded his son of his inheritance.
- Sir Gregory Marrable
The current baronet, an old man living at Dunripple Park; head of the family but estranged from some branches.
- Harry Gilmore
Mentioned as the other hero of the story, a straightforward country squire, and possibly engaged to Mary Lowther.
Key passages
“psha! that’s nonsense, Walter. Take things coolly. They’re more likely to come right, and they won’t be so troublesome, even if they don’t.”
Parson John advises Walter not to worry so much; things will either work out or be less bothersome if he stays calm.
Parson John's philosophy of equanimity in the face of trouble.
“He was just such a man to look at as a prudent mother would select as one to whom she might entrust her daughter with safety.”
Mr. Gilmore's appearance inspires trust and reliability, making him an ideal match for a daughter.
Contrast between Gilmore's honest demeanor and Marrable's fierce appearance.
“The father, with a cigar between his teeth, had told his son that this was the fortune of war, that if justice had been done him at his marriage, the money would have been his own, and that by G⸺ he was very sorry, and couldn’t say anything more.”
Colonel Marrable dismisses his son's grievance, claiming the loss of inheritance was just bad luck and offering a casual apology.
Illustrates the Colonel's callousness and the depth of the family conflict.