Miss Mary Earlwood is the close friend and confidant of the protagonist. She resides at Dunnistone Manor with her mother, her father and her sisters Harriet and Lettice. Like her siblings, she was raised by Anna.
Character[]
Miss Earlwood has a frank demeanour and has little trouble asserting her opinions, within the bounds of decorum. She is intelligent, sensible and forthright, and is able to speak in blunt yet civil terms where it is needed, from rebuffing Mrs Norris to chastising Tom for his behaviour towards Phoebe.
Views on marriage[]
Like other gentleman's daughters, Miss Earlwood desires to wed a suitable husband in order to gain security. She considers affection in such a union to be preferably, but not necessary. For example, she advises the protagonist to marry Mr Digby rather than live as an old maid. She also takes initiative in securing a match — such as when she asks the protagonist whether she may pursue Mr Ashcroft.
Trivia[]
- Mary's character resembles that of Charlotte Lucas in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. Both characters are close friends with the main character and hold a practical view of marriage.