The Vicar of Bullhampton · Chapter
Mr. Jay of Warminster explained
Fenwick continues his efforts to support Carry Brattle, facing financial and reputational risks.
What happens
Fenwick continues his efforts to support Carry Brattle, facing financial and reputational risks. He learns from Constable Toffy that the murderers of Mr. Trumbull have been caught—Jack Burrows (the Grinder) and Lawrence Acorn—and that Sam Brattle is now wanted. Despite the evidence, Fenwick refuses to believe Sam is guilty. He visits Salisbury on various errands, briefly seeing Carry, and then travels to Warminster to appeal to Mr. Jay, Carry's brother-in-law, for help.
Themes in this chapter
Redemption and the Fallen Woman
Fenwick's persistent efforts to support Carry Brattle highlight the theme of redemption for a 'fallen woman' and the societal obstacles to her rehabilitation.
Justice and Prejudice
The arrest of the murderers and the pursuit of Sam Brattle raise questions about justice, prejudice, and Fenwick's refusal to believe in Sam's guilt despite the evidence.
Hypocrisy and Moral Courage
Fenwick's willingness to risk his reputation for Carry's sake contrasts with the potential hypocrisy of those who would judge him, such as Lord Trowbridge.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Fenwick
Continues to support Carry Brattle, learns of the arrest of Trumbull's murderers and Sam's wanted status, and visits Mr. Jay at Warminster.
- Janet Fenwick
Warns her husband about the potential scandal and expense of his involvement with Carry Brattle.
- Carry Brattle
Remains at Mrs. Stiggs's house in Salisbury, struggling with tedium and despair, but her conduct is reported as favorable.
- Sam Brattle
Now wanted by the constable in connection with Trumbull's murder; Fenwick still believes him innocent.
- Head Constable Toffy
Brings news to Fenwick that Jack Burrows and Lawrence Acorn have been caught for Trumbull's murder, and that Sam Brattle is also wanted.
- Mr. Jay
The ironmonger of Warminster, brother-in-law to Carry Brattle, whom Fenwick visits to seek help for Carry.
Key passages
“We've got 'em at last, I think... all except Sam Brattle—whom we want.”
Constable Toffy informs Fenwick that the murderers have been caught, but Sam Brattle is still at large and wanted.
This reveals the progress in the murder investigation and the ongoing threat to Sam.
“People will say that you, a clergyman and a married man, go to see a pretty young woman at Salisbury.”
Janet warns Frank that his visits to Carry could damage his reputation and the parish's opinion of him.
Highlights the theme of hypocrisy and the risk of scandal in a small community.
“I could do it so much better if I was not a clergyman.”
Fenwick feels constrained by his clerical role, believing he could help Carry more effectively as a layman.
Reflects Fenwick's frustration with the limitations and expectations placed on him as a clergyman.