# Chapter XVI explained — Washington Square

> Chapter companion for Washington Square by Henry James.

## What happens

Mrs. Penniman meets Morris Townsend in a confectioner's shop to discuss Catherine and Dr. Sloper's opposition to their marriage. She suggests a private marriage or elopement as a way to force Dr. Sloper's acceptance, arguing that the accomplished fact will eventually win him over. Morris is skeptical and troubled, especially when Mrs. Penniman reveals that Dr. Sloper suspects him of being after Catherine's money. Morris admits he does like the money but insists he is not mercenary. The conversation ends with Mrs. Penniman offering her support and Morris walking her home, where he gazes gloomily at the Sloper house.

## Themes in this chapter

### Deception and Self-Interest

Mrs. Penniman's scheme for a private marriage is a deceptive strategy to bypass Dr. Sloper's authority, while Morris's admission that he likes the money reveals his self-interest.

### Parental Control and Rebellion

Dr. Sloper's opposition to the marriage drives Mrs. Penniman to propose elopement as an act of rebellion against his control.

### Wealth and Class

The conversation revolves around Catherine's inheritance and Dr. Sloper's suspicion that Morris is motivated by money, highlighting the role of wealth in relationships.

## Character check-ins

### Lavinia Penniman

Arranges a secret meeting with Morris to discuss Catherine and Dr. Sloper's opposition; suggests a private marriage or elopement; reveals Dr. Sloper's suspicion about Morris's motives.

### Morris Townsend

Meets Mrs. Penniman at a confectioner's shop; expresses bitterness about Catherine's lack of excitement; admits he likes Catherine's money but is troubled by the implications; walks Mrs. Penniman home and gazes at the Sloper house.

### Catherine Sloper

Discussed by Mrs. Penniman and Morris; described as steadfast and true; Morris sends her a message to 'hold fast.'

### Dr. Austin Sloper

Referred to as having a hard, intellectual nature; impervious to pity; suspected of doubting Morris's motives regarding Catherine's money; Mrs. Penniman believes he may eventually be reconciled.

## Key lines

> Marry Catherine first and meet him afterwards!

Mrs. Penniman suggests that Morris should marry Catherine secretly before confronting Dr. Sloper.

_This proposal of elopement is a key plot point, showing Mrs. Penniman's manipulative support._

> He pretends that you like⁠—you like the money.

Mrs. Penniman reveals that Dr. Sloper suspects Morris is after Catherine's fortune.

_This moment forces Morris to confront the accusation directly._

> I do like the money!

Morris admits that he is attracted to Catherine's wealth.

_This candid admission underscores the theme of self-interest and complicates his character._

## Links

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