CHAPTER SUMMARY AND NOTES

CHAPTER 35

Summary

Oliver's cries attract attention. Soon, Mr. Giles, Harry, and Dr. Losborne go in search of the two intruders in the direction pointed out by Oliver. Though they make a thorough search of the whole place, they are unable to spot any foot steps. Finally, they dismiss it as a vision of Oliver though the boy insists it was real. His earnest face and honest looks convince them of the truth of his words. They send a search party to different ale- houses to spot the men bearing this resemblance to Fagin and Monks. However, since no one is able to furnish information about the criminals, the matter is slowly forgotten.

Mr. Harry meets Rose and declares his love for her. He also asks for her hand in marriage. Rose thanks him for his concern but expresses her helplessness in reciprocating his affection. By marrying a woman blighted at birth, she does not want him to mar his career or prospects. Since she holds him in high esteem, she would not like to sacrifice his bright future by marrying a woman with a doubtful identity. In spite of Mr. Harry's assurances, she remains firm in her decision. Finally Mr. Maylie takes leave of her, with a fond hope that he may open his proposal to her in the near future.

Notes

The appearance of Fagin at Chertsey creates anxiety about the safety of Oliver. His enemies have located him and his life is still insecure.

The chapter partially reveals the origins of Rose. She seems to share her plight with Oliver. Both of them have doubtful identities and thus look vulnerable. It is this vulnerability which arouses attraction from others. Mr. Harry Maylie is attracted to Rose and proposes to her. However, when she rejects his offer, he promises to wait for her approval. Both Rose and Oliver are lucky to have people who accept them as they are and show their affection to them.

CHAPTER 36

Summary

This short chapter relates how men who disappointed in love react to their situation. Mr. Harry Maylie, disappointed and hurt by Rose's rejection of his proposal, reacts to the situation by making a hurried exit from the scene. He takes Dr. Losborne by surprise when he announces his decision to accompany the doctor to London. In order to avoid the embarrassment of meeting Rose after the unfortunate incident, he chooses to stay away from her. However, he takes Oliver into confidence and requests him to write letters to him to London informing him about the welfare of Mrs. Maylie and Rose and his own activities. Oliver feels honored to have been given such a responsibility and promises to do so. The young man thus takes his leave after casting a last look at the window of his beloved's room. Rose too catches a glimpse of him and sheds tears more out of sorrow than of joy.

Notes

The rigid norms of society make Rose sacrifice her love for Harry. The last lines of the chapter show Rose shedding tears of sorrow as she fondly looks at Harry sitting in the carriage.

Oliver's stature enhances when he is accepted as a friend by Harry and is taken into confidence by him. He is given the responsibility of sending information about Rose and Mrs. Maylie to Harry.

Table of Contents | Printable Version | Barron's Booknotes