North and South, Chapter 2 summary
Chapter 2 of 52 · 13 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 2, Margaret returns to Helstone with her father and finds that her beloved outdoor life contrasts with her mother's complaints and his growing anxiety. She wonders whether Frederick's absence explains his distress, but fine October weather distracts her until Henry Lennox arrives.
What happens
- Returning from the wedding, Margaret notices her father's tired, anxious appearance and hopes to comfort both parents.
- She enjoys forest walks and friendships with villagers, but her mother complains about Helstone and her husband's lack of advancement.
- Autumn weather confines Margaret indoors, where difficult evenings reveal her parents' separate habits and her own prejudice against trade.
- Margaret longs to ask about Frederick's mutiny and absence, while Dixon carefully maintains his empty room.
- Mr. Hale withdraws from parish work and anxiously watches for the postman, making Margaret suspect troubling news about Frederick.
- Fine October days restore Margaret's happiness, and Sarah announces Henry Lennox as Margaret prepares her drawing board.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Margaret expects to surrender luxuries, not to encounter persistent unhappiness at home. The line marks the gap between her hopes and her experience.
Quick check
What does Margaret suspect causes her father's recent anxiety?
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