Middlemarch, Chapter 69 summary
Chapter 69 of 88 · Book 7: Two Temptations · 16 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 69, Caleb Garth ends his business dealings with Bulstrode after hearing John Raffles’s disclosures, while Bulstrode takes charge of the sick man under Lydgate’s instructions. Lydgate returns home to find a creditor’s man installed there, and his distress over debt exposes the growing distance between him and Rosamond.
What happens
- Caleb tells Bulstrode that he brings the sick Raffles to Stone Court, then refuses further business dealings while promising discretion.
- Bulstrode rides to Stone Court, hopes for Raffles’s death, and finds that the frightened man cannot reliably recall his disclosures.
- Lydgate examines Raffles, gives guarded hope of recovery, and instructs Bulstrode to withhold all liquor.
- Lydgate returns home to find a creditor’s man present and breaks down beside Rosamond.
- Rosamond proposes staying with her parents, but agrees to remain after Lydgate responds with bitter irony.
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Middlemarch, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
In this chapter
What to notice
The instruction makes Bulstrode’s responsibility explicit. His role as caregiver stands beside his private wish that Raffles should die.
Quick check
What does Caleb promise Bulstrode about Raffles’s disclosures?
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Middlemarch, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.
Try 3 months free
