Brothers, Chapter 12 summary
Chapter 12 of 43 · 10 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 12, Betty Kirtling confides that she expects Mark to propose, but wants him to leave his work in Stepney for a more comfortable district. Lady Randolph warns that his calling cannot easily be changed and reveals her own unresolved doubts about refusing the man she loved.
What happens
- At breakfast, Betty learns that Mark has gone to town on an important errand for Archibald Samphire.
- Alone in the garden, Betty delights in Mark’s love but recoils from the slums where he works.
- Betty tells Lady Randolph that she expects a proposal and wants Mark to work somewhere more agreeable.
- Their discussion of Betty’s other admirers exposes her attraction to comfort, devotion, talent, and beauty.
- Lady Randolph compares Mark’s dedication to Harry’s hunting and warns Betty against expecting to change him.
- Challenged about her own marriage, Lady Randolph admits uncertainty about her decision to refuse the man she loved.
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Brothers, 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
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 a day.
In this chapter
What to notice
The comparison challenges Betty’s belief that Mark can simply move his work to suit her. Lady Randolph presents his commitment as a ruling passion.
Quick check
What does Betty want to ask Mark to change?
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Brothers, 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
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 a day.
200,000+ classics to read, hear and hold
15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.
Try 3 months free
