# John Crumb's Victory explained — The Way We Live Now

> Chapter companion for The Way We Live Now by Anthony Trollope.

## What happens

John Crumb returns to Suffolk triumphant, having secured Ruby Ruggles as his bride. After a brief visit to London where he reconciles with Ruby, he wins over the town of Bungay and eventually old Daniel Ruggles, who forgives Ruby and consents to the marriage. The wedding is celebrated with a feast at the King's Head, where Joe Mixet gives a humorous speech likening the couple to Mars and Venus. Ruby, initially reluctant, begins to respect John after their honeymoon and resolves to do her duty as his wife.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love vs. Practicality

John Crumb's persistent, practical love wins Ruby, who initially marries out of submission but later learns to respect him, blending affection with duty.

### Family Obligation and Selfishness

Old Ruggles initially refuses to forgive Ruby or pay her dowry, but is shamed into compliance by community pressure, highlighting the tension between familial duty and personal stubbornness.

## Character check-ins

### John Crumb

Triumphant bridegroom who wins over Bungay and old Ruggles, arranges the wedding feast, and secures Ruby's hand.

### Ruby Ruggles

Reluctantly submits to John's embraces, is married, and after a short honeymoon begins to respect her husband.

### Daniel Ruggles

Initially opposed to the marriage, he is persuaded by public pressure and the efforts of Joe Mixet and his mother to forgive Ruby and consent.

### Mrs. Hurtle

Attends the wedding as a guest of honor, having helped reconcile John and Ruby.

### Mrs. Pipkin

Assists in wedding preparations, receives a purple silk dress from John, and accompanies Mrs. Hurtle to Bungay.

### Joe Mixet

Leads deputations to old Ruggles, gives a speech at the wedding feast comparing John and Ruby to Mars and Venus.

## Key lines

> I don’t see why I ain’t to do as I likes with my own

Old Ruggles insists on his right to control his property and granddaughter.

_Reflects the theme of family obligation and selfishness._

> Now, Ruby, give a fellow a buss—as though you meant it

John asks Ruby for a genuine kiss, signaling his desire for real affection.

_Highlights the transition from a practical marriage to one with emotional potential._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_way_we_live_now_se/chapters/xciv-john-crumb-s-victory
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_way_we_live_now_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_way_we_live_now_se/chapters