The Woman in White · Chapter
XIV explained
Walter Hartright returns to Limmeridge House and informs Miss Halcombe of his encounter with Anne Catherick.
What happens
Walter Hartright returns to Limmeridge House and informs Miss Halcombe of his encounter with Anne Catherick. They plan for Miss Halcombe to interview Anne the next day, but discover that Anne and Mrs. Clements have abruptly left Todd's Corner. The departure is linked to the dairymaid's mention of Sir Percival Glyde's impending visit, deepening suspicions about his role in Anne's confinement. Miss Halcombe resolves that Sir Percival must answer for his actions or Laura will not marry him.
Themes in this chapter
Secrecy and Conspiracy
Anne Catherick's sudden departure and the mystery of Sir Percival's motives highlight a hidden conspiracy.
Deception and Trust
Marian and Walter grapple with the need to uncover the truth while navigating the deceptions surrounding Anne and Sir Percival.
Class and Social Hierarchy
The power imbalance between Sir Percival (a baronet) and Anne (a poor woman) is central to the suspicion about her confinement.
Characters to notice
- Walter Hartright
Reports his encounter with Anne Catherick to Miss Halcombe and plans to investigate further.
- Marian Halcombe
Takes charge of the investigation, resolves to confront Sir Percival Glyde, and supports Walter's efforts.
- Anne Catherick
Flees Todd's Corner with Mrs. Clements after being agitated by news of Sir Percival Glyde's arrival.
- Sir Percival Glyde
Mentioned as the likely person who confined Anne in an asylum; his impending visit causes Anne's flight.
- Laura Fairlie
Her marriage engagement is announced in the newspaper, which may have agitated Anne; her future is the central concern.
- Frederick Fairlie
Walter seeks his permission to shorten his engagement at Limmeridge House.
Key passages
“My mind misgives me sadly about the future.”
Marian expresses deep unease about what lies ahead.
Reflects her growing suspicion and concern for Laura.
“Sir Percival Glyde shall remove that doubt, Mr. Hartright—or Laura Fairlie shall never be his wife.”
Marian vows to get answers from Sir Percival, threatening to stop the marriage if necessary.
Shows her determination to protect Laura at all costs.
“Anne Catherick is gone.”
Miss Halcombe reports that Anne has left the farm unexpectedly.
A turning point that eliminates a key source of information.