In this section of the House of Mirth by Edith Wharton, Lily’s
Aunt that cares for her- Julia Peniston- becomes a more prominent character.
When her preferred company, Grace Stepney, sheds light on Lily’s life and what the
rumors are saying now. She explained the situation with Gus Trenor and all of
the awful allegations that have been made against her regarding that. Also,
Lily’s gambling problem is brought to light, and Mrs. Peniston’s reactions to
all of this new information comes as a bit of a surprise. She remains calm the
entire time, excusing Grace and not even mentioning one part of it to Lily! Any
other guardian probably would have gone insane knowing the behavior that Lily
was accused of conducting. What Edith Wharton has planned for this character later on, we can only guess.
Also, while reading chapter 12, it was very interesting to hear all the characters' comments on Lily's incredible beauty highlighted by a portrait drawn by artist Paul Morpeth who had been hired for a party that the Welly Bry family. They are all looking on the outside and noticing her obvious beauty. But Seldon, a character I have a great liking for, sees her as so much more than that. He loves her, and wants more than anything to be with her for the rest of his life. Unfortunately, she still doesn't feel the same, even after they share a kiss. As much as I want them together, I have a bad feeling that they won't, and it breaks my heart, especially for Seldon. Lastly, I am very interested to see how the relationship between Gerty Farish and Lily develops because Gerty is a genuinely good-hearted person. Her comment, "It makes her look like the real Lily" (Wharton 110) shows that.
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