Doctor Thorne · Character

Miss Dunstable

The great heiress of the ointment fortune, whose laughing black eyes and sharp wit make her the marriage market's most formidable prize.

supporting

Also known as old Dunstable, the great Dunstable, the great Miss Dunstable, Dearest Miss Dunstable

First appearance: Miss Dunstable

As a supporting figure in Doctor Thorne, Miss Dunstable is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.

Miss Dunstable is the wealthy heiress the de Courcys intend for Frank, though she is not present in the chapter.

In the storyFrank Gresham's Early LovesOpen this moment free

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Miss Dunstable is rich beyond anyone's need, and the countess and Lady Arabella alike scheme to marry her to their young men. Frank Gresham flirts with her half in fun and half to tease his aunt, only to find himself piqued that she laughs at him like a boy and corresponds meanwhile with his cousin George. She matters because she refuses to be merely a fortune: her good humor and clear sight expose the mercenary calculations of everyone around her.

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Character Web

17 connections

A slice of how Miss Dunstable sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.

Relationship types

Other

Character groups

Minor Characters and Background Figures
Greshamsbury Family and Associates

+12 more in the full Character Web

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.

Setup
Escalation
Breaking point
Aftermath
Closing

In this excerpt, the emotional and psychological peak occurs as Sir Louis, physically and morally debilitated,…

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In the story

Miss Dunstable appears across 7 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

Frank Gresham's Early Loves
Miss Dunstable is the wealthy heiress the de Courcys intend for Frank, though she is not present in the chapter.
Miss Dunstable
The wealthy heiress arrives at Courcy Castle. She engages in witty banter with Frank, teasing him about love and courtship, and mentions having multiple suitors.
The Rivals
The heiress who is courted by both Frank and Mr. Moffat; she sees through their flattery and enjoys the game.
The Proposal
Sees through Frank's insincere proposal, confronts him, and ultimately forgives him after he admits his true intentions.
The Donkey Ride
Corresponds with Frank, encouraging him to be true to his love for Mary; her letters influence his resolve.
A Morning Visit
Mentioned as encouraging Frank's love for Mary and offering to help with financial difficulties.
How the Bride Was Received, and Who Were Asked to the Wedding
Attends as a bridesmaid, visits Mary after Christmas, and becomes a close friend.

Chapter companion notes

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See Miss Dunstable in Frank Gresham's Early Loves