The Adventures of Roderick Random

Home Sober

Mr. Freeman, heartily glad at the squire’s defeat, assists the narrator in carrying him to bed, where they leave him to the care of his servants. The narrator and Freeman then go home to their respective habitations, congratulating each other on their good fortune. The narrator has successfully avoided intoxication through his clever stratagem and escaped without damaging Narcissa’s good opinion of him.

第五十七章

R— R— continues his pursuit of Narcissa while navigating social complications with her brother the squire and encountering a new rival for Narcissa’s attention at a ball.

Miss Williams Confirms Narcissa’s Approbation of R— R—’s Flame

Miss Williams meets R— R— at their usual rendezvous and confirms that Narcissa has expressed warm approval of his behavior toward her brother. She recounts Narcissa’s passionate declarations in R— R—’s favor, which exceed his most hopeful expectations. When R— R— offers her a ring as gratitude, she refuses with resentment, feeling insulted that he would think her mercenary. After explaining his intentions and promising to follow her counsel, R— R— learns that Miss Williams can manage a literary correspondence between them by pretending she refused to deliver his letters until she knew Narcissa’s sentiments.

Reconciling the Squire and Securing Ball Permission

Consulting Freeman about reconciling with the offended squire, R— R— is advised that the only way to appease him is through a drinking contest. He hosts a debauch at his own lodgings to avoid being seen by Narcissa in such a state. The squire accepts the invitation and complains of the trick played on him, but R— R— promises to atone. While the squire drinks heavily, R— R— drinks lighter French claret and manages to remain composed, resulting in the squire being carried home drunk. The next day, R— R— obtains the squire’s permission to dance with Narcissa at the upcoming ball.