After reading · Part II · Chapter 12
Part II · Chapter 12A Proposal Prevented
Reading boundary
Start: Mr. Stryver having made up his mind
Stop after: winking at his ceiling.
Summary
On his way to propose, Stryver tells Mr. Lorry of his intention. Lorry firmly doubts that Lucie would accept. Offended, Stryver agrees to wait while Lorry visits Soho and makes discreet inquiries.
Lorry returns late and confirms that the proposal would not prosper. Stryver rapidly revises the story: he claims he never truly meant to proceed, calls Lucie a foolish, empty-headed girl, and casts his retreat as wisdom. Lorry leaves disgusted by this self-serving performance.
Who’s who
- Mr. Stryver — Would-be suitor who turns anticipated rejection into a claim of his own good judgment.
- Jarvis Lorry — Lucie’s protective friend and tactful intermediary.
- Lucie Manette — Whose wishes Lorry knows well enough to prevent an unwanted proposal.