North and South, Chapter 7 summary

What happens

1. The Hales find lodgings in Heston, where Margaret enjoys the sea air and briefly avoids thinking about their uncertain future.
2. Margaret and her father visit smoky, crowded Milton and struggle to find a house within their budget.
3. They choose a house in Crampton, and Margaret plans how its rooms can accommodate the household.
4. While Mr. Hale visits the landlord, Margaret meets Mr. Thornton, whose admiration mixes with resentment at her apparent pride.
5. Mr. Hale praises Thornton, while Margaret describes him as strong and determined but lacking a gentleman’s polish.
6. The family moves into the house and finds the disliked wallpaper replaced through Thornton’s intervention, without knowing his part.

In this chapter

What to notice

Thornton’s reaction exposes the gap between Margaret’s intentions and his interpretation. Their meeting produces resentment alongside his strong admiration.

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