Cranford

第六章

Chapter VI presents Miss Matty narrating the painful history of her brother Peter’s departure from Cranford to join the navy. Through the reading of letters and Miss Matty’s recollections, the chapter traces the family’s grief over Peter’s missed reunion, their mother’s decline and death, the posthumous arrival of an Indian shawl, the family’s reduced circumstances, Peter’s brief return as a lieutenant, his final disappearance at sea, and Miss Matty’s lingering hope—concluding with a mysterious street noise at the door.

Peter’s Mother’s Farewell Letter

Miss Matty reads aloud her mother’s farewell letter to Peter, expressing the family’s deep sorrow at his departure and entreat­ing him to return, noting that his father sits sighing and cannot hold up his head for grief.

Missed Liverpool Reunion

A captain’s letter summoning the parents to Liverpool was delayed by the races, and when they finally set off in their gig, they arrived too late—the ship had already gone, denying Peter his reunion with his mother.

Peter’s Parting Letter to His Mother

Peter’s letter to his mother was full of love, pride in his new profession, shame over his disgrace in Cranford’s eyes, and a passionate plea that she come to see him before his ship sailed into battle against the French.

Peter’s Mother’s Grief and Failing Health

Miss Matty’s mother bore Peter’s loss with patience though she had never been strong; she grew weaker with hidden bitter crying, sent repeated messages to Peter through India, and faded away within a twelvemonth of his departure.