A Family & a Fortune
1939
Ivy Compton-Burnett's unique genius lay in her ability to convey, using the delicate undertones of drawing-room conversation, the major experiences of life and the intrinsic emotions of the heart.
BRIEF PLOT SUMMARY
In Edgar Gaveston’s over-analytical household, endless debates rage over trivial matters — from coffee cups to whether his wife Blanche snores during her afternoon naps. Their fragile peace is shattered when Blanche’s father Oliver Seaton, sister Matty, and Matty’s long-suffering companion Miss Griffin announce they are coming to live with them. After protracted discussion, the Gavestons reluctantly agree. Matty immediately complains about her assigned rooms and makes her displeasure felt, while the meek Miss Griffin tries to fit in and quietly develops a fondness for Edgar’s brother Dudley.
Tension escalates when Dudley inherits a comfortable income of around £2,000 a year. Miscommunication inflates the sum in everyone’s minds, sparking greedy speculation and arguments about how the money should be spent. Dudley generously divides portions among the Gaveston children but grows weary of the constant discussion of his fortune. Shortly afterwards, Dudley and Maria Sloane become engaged. Then Blanche falls suddenly and gravely ill. In her delirium she laments that her father never knew her true self and asks Edgar if he is “the tall man who asked me to marry him.”
She dies soon after, leaving the household in mourning. Scarcely has Blanche been buried when Edgar confesses to Dudley that Maria now wishes to marry him instead. Dudley, bitterly amused, releases her with sarcastic grace and declares he will return to his old role of living for others. The children openly disapprove of their father’s swift remarriage. Matty’s mistreatment of Miss Griffin finally causes a complete breakdown; Miss Griffin flees into the snow.
Dudley promises her independence and a home of her own. Oliver Seaton dies of old age. Dudley himself falls dangerously ill, coming close to death before recovering. Upon his convalescence, he confronts Edgar for marrying Maria too soon after Blanche’s death, then quietly announces that he has proposed to Miss Griffin. The two brothers walk arm in arm once more. Justine watches from the window and races through the house to tell her siblings that the fractured family bond has been restored — at least for now.
CRITICAL ACCLAIM
"Her scalpel-sharp pen performed startling surgery on the accepted concept of genteel family life."
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Sunday Telegraph
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"Once every two years, punctual as a comet and no less brilliant, the muse of Miss Compton-Burnett pays us a return visit."
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New Statesman
