Cranford

CAPÍTULO XVI.

In Cranford, Chapter XVI, the narrative returns to focus on Miss Matty’s world following the departures of earlier characters. Mr Peter Jenkyns arrives from India and brings considerable excitement to the quiet town. His charming storytelling and exotic manners captivate the ladies of Cranford, while his sister observes that his tales become more elaborate when the rector isn’t present. The chapter traces several threads—Mr Peter’s efforts to reconcile feuding neighbors, the return of beloved old acquaintances, and Miss Matty’s continuing gentle decline in health. Through it all, the narrator Mary observes the small dramas of provincial life, culminating in a festive gathering at the George inn that resolves old tensions and restores harmony to Cranford society.

Peace to Cranford

The chapter opens by establishing the peaceful state of affairs in Cranford, with Miss Matty and Mr Peter living comfortably together in their home that has been restored to its former domestic arrangement. The narrator describes how Martha and Jem have remained in the household, much to Miss Matty’s relief, and how the empty rooms have been furnished once more. This section sets the tone for a chapter concerned with reconciliation and the restoration of friendly relations among Cranford’s inhabitants, particularly after the unfortunate quarrel between Mrs Jamieson and the Hogginses.

Peter’s Popularity

Mr Peter Jenkyns becomes the object of great admiration among the ladies of Cranford following his return from India. His wonderful stories of distant lands rival those of Sindbad the Sailor, and Miss Pole declares him to be quite as entertaining as an Arabian Night any evening. The narrator notes, however, that Peter’s tales tend to grow more extravagant as time passes, especially when his sister Deborah is not present to temper his accounts. He speaks quite differently when the rector visits, adopting a quieter and more measured tone. The ladies prefer his more exotic manner, which they consider “very Oriental,” and vie with each other to show him the most admiration.

The Cross-Legged Incident

At a select party given in Mr Peter’s honor at Miss Pole’s house, he requests permission to sit cross-legged, finding the formal chairs uncomfortable. Miss Pole readily consents, and he settles down with great dignity. Miss Pole whispers to the narrator, asking if he does not remind her of the Father of the Faithful, but the narrator cannot help thinking of poor Simon Jones, the lame tailor. When Mrs Jamieson comments on the elegance of the posture, the narrator recalls how the same lady had led the condemnation of Mr Hoggins for simply crossing his legs while seated. The incident highlights the different standards applied to Mr Peter’s exotic habits compared to the more ordinary behaviors of the less genteel Mr Hoggins.

Mr Holbrook’s Memory

One summer evening, Mr Peter reminisces about his old friend Mr Holbrook of Woodley, whom he had always believed would marry his sister Matty. He tells Miss Matty and the narrator that when he left England, he would have sworn she was on the road to matrimony. He recalls how Holbrook used to talk constantly of Matty during their fishing expeditions, and how he attributes Holbrook’s kindness to a young Peter as evidence of his affection for Miss Matty. The narrator notes that Peter’s sister Deborah once lectured him severely about inviting Holbrook to lunch when the Arley carriage was in town, for fear of what people would think. Peter expresses regret that Holbrook died before he could return home to thank him properly, saying he would have liked such a man for a brother-in-law.

Miss Matty’s Frailty

Upon hearing Mr Peter’s memories of Mr Holbrook and the suggestion that she “must have played her cards badly,” Miss Matty grows silent. She begins to shiver despite the warm evening, and Peter notices her distress immediately. He closes the open window and the narrator is concerned that she may be chilled. Miss Matty clasps the narrator’s hand unconsciously, though she recovers her spirits within a few minutes and smiles away their worry. The narrator and Peter enforce remedies of a warm bed and weak negus, and by the next day all effects of the chill have vanished. The incident reveals Miss Matty’s delicate constitution and her sensitivity when confronted with memories of lost love.