# Chapter X explained — Washington Square

> Chapter companion for Washington Square by Henry James.

## What happens

Catherine receives Morris Townsend in her drawing-room, where they discuss their future and plan to inform Dr. Sloper of their engagement. Morris warns Catherine that her father will accuse him of being mercenary, but Catherine resolves to defend him. Their conversation ends with a reaffirmation of their love, and Catherine agrees to speak to her father first.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Marriage

Catherine and Morris formalize their romantic attachment with vows and a kiss, planning marriage despite anticipated opposition.

### Deception and Self-Interest

Morris's warning about being called 'mercenary' hints at his potential self-interest, while Catherine's trust contrasts with his calculated approach.

### Parental Control and Rebellion

Catherine prepares to confront her father's disapproval, embodying the tension between filial duty and personal desire.

## Character check-ins

### Catherine Sloper

Catherine receives Morris and agrees to speak to her father about their engagement, showing both bravery and naivety.

### Morris Townsend

Morris presses Catherine to settle their plans, warns her of her father's likely accusation of mercenary motives, and secures her promise of fidelity.

### Dr. Austin Sloper

Though not present, Dr. Sloper looms over the conversation as the anticipated obstacle; Morris describes him as a 'heartless scoffer' and predicts his opposition.

### Lavinia Penniman

Mrs. Penniman is mentioned as having encouraged the romance, delighting in the drama and imagining herself as confidante and chorus.

## Key lines

> We must settle something⁠—we must take a line

We need to decide on a plan of action.

_Morris urges Catherine to move forward with their relationship despite her father's likely opposition._

> He will tell you I am mercenary.

He will accuse me of being after your money.

_Morris predicts Dr. Sloper's primary objection to their marriage._

> I will persuade him. But I am glad we shall be rich

I will convince him. And I'm happy we have money.

_Catherine naively believes her father can be swayed and sees their wealth as an asset._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/washington_square_se/chapters/x
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/washington_square_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/washington_square_se/chapters