Orley Farm · Chapters

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Chapter companions for Orley Farm by Anthony Trollope.

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Chapter 1
The Commencement of the Great Orley Farm Case
The chapter introduces the background of the Orley Farm case, detailing the death of Sir Joseph Mason, the contested codicil that left Orley Farm to his infant son Lucius rather than his eldest son Joseph, and the legal proceedings that followed. It also describes the relationships among key characters, including Lady Mason, Miriam Usbech (later Dockwrath), and the dispute over two fields that reignites the case years later.
Chapter 2
Lady Mason and Her Son
This chapter introduces Lady Mason, a composed and prudent widow living at Orley Farm, and her son Lucius Mason, who has just returned from Germany. It details her background, her marriage to the late Sir Joseph Mason, the legal dispute over the Orley Farm codicil, and her growing friendship with Sir Peregrine Orme and his family. The chapter also sets up the tension between Lady Mason and her stepson, Joseph Mason of Groby.
Chapter 3
The Cleeve
This chapter introduces Sir Peregrine Orme, his estate The Cleeve, and his family. Sir Peregrine is an old, opinionated gentleman of modest wealth but high social standing, devoted to his daughter-in-law Mrs. Orme, the widow of his only son. The chapter also describes his grandson and heir, young Peregrine Orme, who has been rusticated from Oxford for youthful escapades, and contrasts his character with that of Lucius Mason.
Chapter 4
The Perils of Youth
Lady Mason confides in Sir Peregrine about her son Lucius's expensive experimental farming and his trip to Liverpool to buy guano. Sir Peregrine agrees to speak to Lucius. Meanwhile, Sir Peregrine confronts his grandson Peregrine about his involvement in ratting and a brawl in Cowcross Street, leading to a promise to abstain from such pursuits for two years. The chapter ends with Lady Mason writing to Sir Peregrine for further advice.
Chapter 5
Sir Peregrine Makes a Second Promise
Lady Mason, grateful for Sir Peregrine's promise regarding her son, raises another concern: the threat of renewed legal trouble from Mr. Dockwrath, who has gone to Yorkshire with documents from old Mr. Usbech. She seeks Sir Peregrine's counsel and reassurance. He advises her to ignore Dockwrath and not consult Mr. Furnival unless legally summoned, promising not to desert her. Lady Mason resolves to wait, comforted by his support.

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The Commencement of the Great Orley Farm Case

Lady Mason and Her Son

The Cleeve

The Perils of Youth

Sir Peregrine Makes a Second Promise