Cranford

The Luncheon at the George

At the George inn, the narrator watches Mr Peter with great attention, noting how animated Mrs Jamieson appears in his company. Drawing near, the narrator discovers that Peter is not speaking of love but rather is telling Mrs Jamieson elaborate stories about the Himalayas, adding increasingly absurd details to the height of the mountains with each statement. Mrs Jamieson enjoys every word in perfect good faith. Peter then describes shooting what he thought was a flying creature, only to discover he had shot a cherubim. He catches the narrator’s eye with a twinkle that confirms he has no matrimonial intentions toward Mrs Jamieson. When she expresses concern about the sacrilege of shooting a cherubim, Peter explains that he has lived among savages and heathens for a long time. He then plans to enter the Assembly Room that evening with Mrs Jamieson on one side and Mrs Hoggins on the other.

Reconciliation Achieved

Through Mr Peter’s careful efforts and the help of Major and Mrs Gordon, who are blissfully ignorant of any existing coolness among Cranford’s inhabitants, a reconciliation is achieved between Mrs Jamieson and the Hogginses. Peter deliberately keeps Mrs Jamieson well entertained and occupied, preventing her from maintaining her grudge against the “plebeian” family. At the luncheon and the subsequent Signor Brunoni performance, he ensures that Mrs Jamieson and Mrs Hoggins are brought into conversation together. The narrator expresses gratitude that the old friendly sociability has been restored to Cranford society, particularly because of Miss Matty’s love of peace and kindliness. The chapter concludes with the reflection that all in Cranford love Miss Matty and seem to be better people when she is near them.