Chapter 23 Summary

The visitor turns out to be Farfrae, who has come to see Elizabeth-Jane. He has decided to resume his courtship, in part because he now has enough money to support a family and as a way to resume his friendship with Michael. He finds himself attracted to Lucetta, and the two enjoy a brief visit. They discuss many things, and Michael arrives, but Lucetta sends him away, preferring to spend time with Farfrae. The chapter ends with Lucetta contemplating the reversal of her plan, with Elizabeth-Jane acting as a deterrent to Michael's visits rather than as an incentive!

Chapter 23 Analysis

This chapter shows that fate, which has been a theme throughout the book, can work against other characters besides Michael. If Elizabeth-Jane had not been sent away, Farfrae would likely have married her, while Lucetta would have resumed her own relationship with Michael...