The Way We Live Now · Chapter
Father Barham Visits London explained
Father Barham, a Roman Catholic priest from Beccles, travels to London during the Westminster election to confront Mr.
What happens
Father Barham, a Roman Catholic priest from Beccles, travels to London during the Westminster election to confront Mr. Melmotte about his religious faith. He gains access to Melmotte's chaotic Grosvenor Square house, which is being prepared for the Emperor's entertainment. Melmotte, already agitated about seating arrangements, dismisses Barham rudely, but later becomes inflated by the visit, seeing it as a sign of his importance. The chapter also explores the political maneuvering around Melmotte's religion, with rumors and articles suggesting he might convert to Catholicism, though his advisors warn against public declarations.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Hypocrisy
Melmotte's religious ambiguity is exploited by both his advisors and the press; he is rumored to be Catholic but avoids public declaration to maintain political advantage.
Speculation and Ruin
Melmotte's inflated sense of importance and the rumors about his religion reflect the speculative nature of his reputation and the precariousness of his social standing.
Corruption of Literature and Media
The Evening Pulpit and other newspapers manipulate religious rumors about Melmotte for political and sensational purposes, showing the corrupt influence of the press.
Characters to notice
- Augustus Melmotte
Agitated about seating for the Emperor's dinner, dismisses Father Barham rudely, but later feels inflated by the priest's visit.
- Father Barham
Visits London to confront Melmotte about his faith, gains access to his house, and is rebuffed but remains determined.
- Lord Alfred Grendall
Present with Melmotte, tries to manage the seating arrangements and dismisses Barham as a lunatic.
- Miles Grendall
Also present with Melmotte, tasked with overseeing the hall arrangements.
- Roger Carbury
Mentioned as a friend of Father Barham, though not present in the chapter.
- Mr. Ferdinand Alf
Invented the nickname 'Great Financier' for Melmotte; his newspaper publishes articles about Melmotte's religion.
- Beauchamp Beauclerk
Advises Melmotte not to write letters about his religion, suggesting he simply say he is a Protestant if asked.
Key passages
“Who the d⸺ are you?”
Melmotte rudely demands to know the identity of Father Barham when he appears in the banqueting hall.
Melmotte's aggressive and dismissive tone reflects his irritation and sense of entitlement.
“I am the Rev. Mr. Barham. I am the priest of Beccles in Suffolk. I believe I am speaking to Mr. Melmotte.”
Father Barham introduces himself humbly, identifying his role and location.
Barham's formal introduction contrasts with Melmotte's rudeness, highlighting the class and power dynamics.
“I am a poor servant of the Cross, who is anxious to know from the lips of Mr. Melmotte himself that his heart is inclined to the true Faith.”
Barham explains his mission: to determine Melmotte's religious allegiance to Catholicism.
Barham's religious zeal and sincerity are evident, though his approach is intrusive.
“There isn't a man in all England at this moment thought of so much as—your humble servant.”
Melmotte boasts that he is the most talked-about man in England.
Melmotte's narcissism and self-importance are on full display, even after a disruptive visit.
“The fervent Romanists have always this point in their favour, that they are ready to believe.”
The narrator notes that devout Catholics are quick to accept hopeful news about conversions.
This observation underscores the credulity of religious enthusiasts and the manipulation of faith for political ends.
