Dr. Wortle’s School · Chapters

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Chapter companions for Dr. Wortle’s School by Anthony Trollope.

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Chapter 1
I: Dr. Wortle
This chapter introduces Dr. Jeffrey Wortle, the Rector of Bowick and headmaster of a successful preparatory school. He is a confident, domineering, yet generous man who has quarrelled with three successive bishops, asserting his independence. His wife adores him, and his daughter Mary is a charming young woman. The chapter also details his school's reputation, his high fees, and his past conflicts with parents, including the Honourable Mrs. Stantiloup.
Chapter 2
The New Usher
The chapter introduces Mr. Peacocke, the new usher at Dr. Wortle's school, and his wife. Despite their growing friendship with the Wortles, the Peacockes refuse all social invitations, citing their unique position. An incident where Mr. Peacocke saves young De Lawle from drowning strengthens the bond. Mrs. Peacocke's refusal of a gift from a Marchioness and her isolation from society fuel rumors, particularly from Mrs. Stantiloup, hinting at a mysterious past.
Chapter 3
The Mystery
Dr. Wortle, prompted by the Bishop and rumors spread by Mrs. Stantiloup, feels compelled to inquire into Mr. Peacocke's past five years. He postpones the difficult conversation, dreading it. The chapter then reveals the mystery to the reader: Mr. Peacocke, a clergyman in America, married a woman he believed to be a widow. However, her first husband, Ferdinand Lefroy, reappeared, claiming the marriage was bigamous, and then vanished. The Peacockes have lived together under this shadow ever since, choosing not to part despite the moral and social implications.
Chapter 4
IV: The Doctor Asks His Question
Dr. Wortle, having promised the Bishop to question Mr. Peacocke about his life in America, wrestles with his conscience over the necessity of the inquiry. He writes to Mr. Peacocke, who arrives that evening. The Doctor explains the Bishop's concerns, but makes clear he is personally satisfied and will not press for answers. Mr. Peacocke acknowledges there is a story to tell, hinting at circumstances where he might not know if he did right or wrong, but asserting he could not have done otherwise. He leaves, having decided to tell the Doctor everything, though he knows it will mean leaving Bowick.
Chapter 5
V: “Then We Must Go”
Dr. Wortle, after his interview with Mr. Peacocke, reflects on the potential danger to his school's reputation if the secret becomes known. He is approached by Mr. Pearson and Mr. Puddicombe about the curacy, with the latter implying the Bishop's knowledge. Meanwhile, Mr. Peacocke and his wife discuss the necessity of confessing everything to the Doctor, concluding that they must leave Bowick if the truth is revealed. The Doctor, though outwardly maintaining his composure, grows increasingly uneasy about the mystery surrounding the Peacockes.

I: Dr. Wortle

The New Usher

The Mystery

IV: The Doctor Asks His Question

V: “Then We Must Go”