Lorna Doone · Chapter
LXII: The King Must Not Be Prayed For explained
News of King Charles II's death reaches the parish, causing confusion and a halt in prayers.
What happens
News of King Charles II's death reaches the parish, causing confusion and a halt in prayers. John Ridd reflects on Lorna's silence since her departure, and the Doones' inactivity is explained by their preparation for a government assault. Annie returns home with her baby, distressed by household neglect and personal troubles.
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 Falling action.
- Setup
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This excerpt marks the dramatic climax because it presents John Ridd’s psychological peak of tension and respo…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Love and Sacrifice
John's sorrow over Lorna's silence and his longing for her presence highlight the theme of love and personal sacrifice.
- Family and Loyalty
Annie's return and John's comfort to her, along with the family's concern for reputation and loyalty to the crown, underscore family bonds.
- Justice and Revenge
The Doones' preparation for attack and the King's death disrupting justice efforts reflect themes of lawlessness and retribution.
Characters to notice
- John Ridd
Narrator; returns home from mowing, reflects on Lorna's absence and the King's death, and comforts Annie.
- Annie Ridd
Returns home with her baby, visibly upset and critical of Lizzie's housekeeping, seeks comfort from John.
- Lorna Doone
Mentioned in John's thoughts; he feels abandoned by her lack of communication since she left for London.
- Annie Ridd (younger)
Implied through Annie's criticism; her housekeeping and intellectual pretensions are noted.
- Parson Bowden
Conducts the service when Sam Fry interrupts the prayer for the King.
- Sam Fry
Brings news of the King's death and interrupts the church service.
Key passages
“I forbid that there prai-er.”
Sam Fry interrupts the church service to stop the prayer for the King, declaring the King is dead.
Sam Fry's dramatic announcement of King Charles II's death during the service.
“Dead as a sto-un: poisoned by they Papishers.”
Sam Fry states the King is dead, poisoned by Catholics.
Sam Fry's blunt and accusatory report of the King's death.
“How natural it all looks again! Oh, I love this old kitchen so!”
Annie expresses nostalgia and affection for the familiar kitchen upon her return.
Annie's emotional reaction to returning home.
