# XIV explained — The Woman in White

> Chapter companion for The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_woman_in_white_se/chapters/xiv
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_woman_in_white_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_woman_in_white_se/chapters