Middlemarch, Chapter 43 summary

What happens

1. Concerned that her husband conceals changes in his health, Dorothea visits Lydgate's house and finds Rosamond entertaining Will.
2. Dorothea initially welcomes Will, then abruptly decides to seek Lydgate at the Hospital rather than wait.
3. During the drive, Dorothea questions her meetings with Will and feels newly uncertain about his character.
4. Will senses her discomfort, resents the encounter, and reveals his admiration for Dorothea while talking with Rosamond.
5. Rosamond tells Lydgate about Will's apparent devotion, then questions how his medical work fits their marriage and ambitions.
6. Lydgate reassures Rosamond and says Dorothea asks about her husband's health and may contribute generously to the Hospital.

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What to notice

Dorothea's distress extends beyond this visit to her understanding of her own conduct. Her confidence in the innocence of her friendship with Will weakens.

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