Middlemarch, Chapter 62 summary
Chapter 62 of 88 · Book 6: The Widow and the Wife · 18 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 62, Will Ladislaw seeks another farewell with Dorothea, while Sir James arranges for her to hear gossip linking him with Mrs. Lydgate. Their unexpected meeting at the Grange produces painful misunderstandings, but his final words convince Dorothea that he loves her, even as he leaves Middlemarch without assurance of her love.
What happens
- Will requests another meeting with Dorothea, believing money, family disgrace, and personal honor prevent a future together.
- At Freshitt, Sir James recruits Mrs. Cadwallader to repeat gossip about Will and Mrs. Lydgate, which Dorothea angrily rejects.
- Dorothea unexpectedly finds Will at the Grange, where he retrieves his sketches and explains his determination to leave.
- Will describes his forbidden love, but Dorothea mistakenly thinks he means Mrs. Lydgate.
- His parting words convince Dorothea that he loves her, bringing joy despite their separation.
- Dorothea passes Will in her carriage; he remains uncertain of her feelings and leaves Middlemarch the following evening.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Will Ladislaw’s irritated reply gives Dorothea the assurance his earlier speech does not. She understands that his strongest attachment is to her rather than Mrs. Lydgate.
Quick check
Why does Will visit the Grange?
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