Cranford

Miss Matty Verifies Peter’s Presence Overnight

Once the narrator falls asleep, Miss Matty becomes tormented by the fear that Peter’s return is only a waking dream. She quietly slips out of bed and creeps to his door to listen to his regular breathing through two closed doors. Only this sound soothes her into sleep, confirming that her long-lost brother is truly present under the same roof.

Peter Shares Gifts with the Cranford Community

Although Peter is not as wealthy as a nabob, he and Miss Matty have enough to live genteelly in Cranford. A day or two after his arrival, the shop closes while Peter showers comfits and lozenges down upon gathered urchins. He distributes tea and gifts to the Cranford ladies, including the Indian muslin gown reserved for Flora Gordon, pearl necklaces, Indian ornaments for Mrs Jamieson and Mrs Fitz-Adam, a fine edition of Dr Johnson’s works for the narrator, and something for every household that had ever shown kindness to his sister.

第十六章

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.