Our Mutual Friend, Book 3: A Long Lane, Chapter 16 summary
Book 3: A Long Lane, Chapter 16 of 68 · 24 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 16, Bella visits her father, accepts John Rokesmith despite his poverty, and receives her father’s blessing for rejecting Mr. Boffin’s unfair treatment of him. She returns to a hostile family supper but remains happy, privately promising her father a peaceful place in the modest home she hopes to share with John.
What happens
- Bella finds her father eating alone at his office and joins his simple meal while hesitating to explain her changed circumstances.
- John Rokesmith arrives, embraces Bella, and announces that she accepts him despite his lack of money or employment.
- R. Wilfer understands Bella’s rejection of Mr. Boffin’s conduct, blesses the engagement, and brings more bread and milk.
- Bella returns home, explains her departure without revealing her engagement, and meets her mother’s silence and Lavinia’s taunts.
- Lavinia announces her courtship with George Sampson, then challenges her mother’s staring and provokes accusations against Bella.
- Bella privately reassures her father and describes a hoped-for married home where he can always find peace.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Bella explains why she accepts her cramped old room without complaint. Her happiness in love outweighs the comforts she gives up.
Quick check
Why does Bella leave Mr. Boffin’s household?
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