Evelina · Chapter
Letter XXXII: Evelina to the Rev. Mr. Villars explained
Evelina writes to Mr.
What happens
Evelina writes to Mr. Villars from Howard Grove, describing the arrival of Sir Clement Willoughby and his flattering attentions. She conceals her unease about Lord Orville, while Captain Mirvan eagerly plots a scheme against Madame Duval.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This is the story's dramatic climax because it represents the emotional and psychological peak of Evelina's cr…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Satire of Society
Captain Mirvan's crude delight in tormenting Madame Duval and Sir Clement's exaggerated flattery satirize both country and town manners.
- Love and Courtship
Evelina's concealed unease about Lord Orville and Sir Clement's persistent attentions highlight the tensions of courtship.
Characters to notice
- Evelina Anville
Narrates the letter; conceals her anxiety about Lord Orville and endures Sir Clement's advances.
- Sir Clement Willoughby
Arrives unexpectedly at Howard Grove; flatters Evelina and Miss Mirvan, and joins Captain Mirvan's scheme.
- Miss Mirvan
Accompanies Evelina on a walk and is greeted by Sir Clement.
- Captain Mirvan
Welcomes Sir Clement boisterously and plots a scheme against Madame Duval.
- Madame Duval
Expresses displeasure at Sir Clement's arrival; is the target of Captain Mirvan's scheme.
Key passages
“I was strolling this morning with Miss Mirvan, down a lane about a mile from the Grove, when we heard the trampling of horses; and, fearing the narrowness of the passage, we were turning hastily back, but stopped upon hearing a voice call out, 'Pray, Ladies, don't be frightened, for I will walk my horse.'”
While walking with Maria Mirvan, Evelina hears horses and prepares to retreat, but a gentleman's voice reassures them.
Sir Clement's arrival interrupts their walk.
“The Captain is now actually occupied in contriving some scheme, which, he says, is to pay the old Dowager off ; and so eager and delighted is he at the idea, that he can scarcely restrain his raptures sufficiently to conceal his design even from herself.”
Captain Mirvan is eagerly planning a trick against Madame Duval, barely able to hide his excitement.
Evelina disapproves of the scheme but feels unable to warn Madame Duval.
