Our Mutual Friend, Book 4: A Turning, Chapter 16 summary
Book 4: A Turning, Chapter 16 of 68 · 18 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 16, Mr. and Mrs. John Harmon use their restored position to help others, welcome family and friends, and support new beginnings around them. Sloppy and Jenny form a warm connection, while Eugene rejects moving abroad to escape social judgment and resolves to stand openly beside Lizzie.
What happens
- The Harmons help people affected by John’s supposed death, and Lightwood secures terms that relieve Twemlow without revealing John’s financial help.
- Mrs. Wilfer, Lavinia, and George Sampson visit the Harmons, bringing quarrels over money, status, and family dignity.
- Sloppy collects a doll from Jenny, admires her hair, and offers to improve her crutch and make storage for her work.
- Eugene and Lizzie visit the Harmons as Eugene’s health improves, and he acknowledges how deeply his wife changes him.
- Eugene rejects emigration as a retreat from prejudice against Lizzie, and Lightwood decides to observe Society again.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Eugene treats departure as a betrayal rather than protection. His question marks his decision to defend his marriage openly.
Quick check
Who secretly becomes Twemlow’s creditor?
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