The Way We Live Now · Chapter
Miles Grendall's Triumph explained
Sir Felix Carbury, after being rebuffed by Melmotte, considers abandoning his pursuit of Marie Melmotte but decides instead to try to raise money to buy shares in the railway scheme to prove his wealth.
What happens
Sir Felix Carbury, after being rebuffed by Melmotte, considers abandoning his pursuit of Marie Melmotte but decides instead to try to raise money to buy shares in the railway scheme to prove his wealth. He attempts to collect debts from Dolly Longestaffe and Miles Grendall, but is unsuccessful. At the Beargarden club, a night of loo sees Miles Grendall winning heavily, using his own worthless I.O.U.s to pay others while taking cash. Sir Felix suspects Grendall of cheating, observing what he believes is a card being slipped into his sleeve.
Themes in this chapter
Speculation and Ruin
Felix's scheme to buy shares in the railway to appear wealthy mirrors the speculative mania of the era, risking financial ruin.
Deception and Hypocrisy
Felix condemns others for not paying debts while planning to use worthless I.O.U.s himself, and Miles Grendall is suspected of cheating at cards.
Characters to notice
- Sir Felix Carbury
Desperate to raise money to impress Melmotte, he tries to collect debts from Dolly and Miles, and later suspects Miles of cheating at cards.
- Miles Grendall
Wins heavily at loo, using his own worthless I.O.U.s to pay others while pocketing cash; Sir Felix suspects him of cheating.
- Dolly Longestaffe
Saunters into the club, owes Felix money but refuses to write a letter, suggesting Felix speak to Melmotte instead.
- Paul Montague
Present at the card game, loses heavily to Miles Grendall, and is asked by Felix to exchange I.O.U.s.
- Lord Nidderdale
Explains the share situation to Felix and tries to keep the peace during the card game dispute.
- Lord Grasslough
Supports Miles Grendall during the argument about the I.O.U.s and criticizes Felix for causing a row.
Key passages
“Dear M. , Your father cut up very rough—about money. Perhaps you had better see him yourself; or would your mother? Yours always, F.”
Felix writes to Marie, telling her that her father was difficult about money and suggesting she or her mother intervene.
Felix's note to Marie shows his reliance on her to manage Melmotte's objections.
“I don't understand this kind of thing. When I win from you, Carbury, I'll take my I.O.U. s, as long as you have any.”
Miles Grendall objects to Felix passing his I.O.U.s to Montague, insisting that only Felix should pay with them.
Miles defends the use of his own paper, revealing the informal and often dishonest nature of club gambling.