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Our Mutual Friend, Book 4: A Turning, Chapter 17 summary

Book 4: A Turning, Chapter 17 of 68 · 9 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 17, Mortimer Lightwood attends the Veneerings’ dinner, where Lady Tippins leads the guests in condemning Eugene’s marriage to a woman without wealth or social standing. Twemlow breaks their agreement by defending gratitude, respect, and affection, and Mortimer leaves encouraged by his refusal to submit to social pressure.

What happens

  1. Mortimer accepts the Veneerings’ invitation and joins their usual dinner guests.
  2. Lady Tippins mocks Eugene’s bride and turns the dinner table into a committee judging the marriage.
  3. Mortimer defends the bride’s character and explains that she saves Eugene’s life.
  4. The guests condemn the match through arguments about rank, money, employment, and suitable compensation.
  5. Twemlow defends the couple and refuses to let either Podsnap or his noble relative dictate his judgment.
  6. Mortimer accompanies Twemlow home, shakes his hand warmly, and leaves in good spirits.

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In this chapter

Eugene WrayburnTheme: Love and rank

What to notice

Twemlow separates being a gentleman from inherited rank. His defense challenges the standards the other diners use to judge the marriage.

Quick check

What does Twemlow say should guide judgment of the marriage?

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