He Knew He Was Right · Chapter
I Know It Will Do explained
Dorothy Stanbury accepts her Aunt Jemima Stanbury's offer to live with her in Exeter, despite Priscilla's reservations.
What happens
Dorothy Stanbury accepts her Aunt Jemima Stanbury's offer to live with her in Exeter, despite Priscilla's reservations. The family corresponds with Hugh, who supports the move. Dorothy arrives at the Close, and Miss Stanbury, though anxious, is pleased with her niece's modest appearance.
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 Mrs. Trevely…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Family Loyalty and Sacrifice
Dorothy agrees to live with her aunt to ease the family's financial burden, planning to send home half her allowance.
- Pride and Stubbornness
Miss Stanbury's rigid rules (no modern novels, no false hair) and her refusal to use pillar boxes reflect her stubborn character.
- Gender Roles and Power in Marriage
Hugh, as the man of the family, makes the final decision for Dorothy, overriding Priscilla's objections.
Characters to notice
- Dorothy Stanbury
Accepts her aunt's invitation to live in Exeter; arrives at the Close with Martha; her modest appearance and gentle manner please Miss Stanbury.
- Miss Jemima Stanbury
Writes to Mrs. Stanbury offering to host Dorothy; anxiously awaits her arrival; is softened by Dorothy's plain straw hat and lack of chignon.
- Priscilla Stanbury
Expresses strong opposition to Dorothy's move, warning that she will not be able to bear Aunt Stanbury; ultimately defers to Hugh's decision.
- Mrs. Stanbury
Writes the formal acceptance letter to Miss Stanbury, with Priscilla's inserted condition; supports Dorothy's move.
- Hugh Stanbury
Advises Dorothy to accept the offer, calling Aunt Stanbury 'a most excellent woman'; sends money for travel and wardrobe.
- Martha
Miss Stanbury's servant; fetches Dorothy from Nuncombe Putney; reports favorably on Dorothy's character.
Key passages
“I could try”
Dorothy expresses willingness to attempt living with her aunt despite Priscilla's warnings.
Shows Dorothy's hopeful and compliant nature.
“Sweet! I hate your sweets”
Miss Stanbury dismisses Martha's praise of Dorothy as 'sweet,' revealing her gruff exterior.
Highlights Miss Stanbury's defensive attitude toward affection.
“I must go down and receive her, I suppose”
Miss Stanbury reluctantly prepares to meet Dorothy, betraying her nervousness.
Illustrates her internal conflict between sternness and desire for companionship.
