"Polly Dill Takes Leave of Conyers" by "Phiz" (Illustration for Charles Lever's "Barrington") (original) (raw)

Polly Dill Takes Leave of Conyers

Phiz (Hablot K. Browne)

1863

Charles Lever's Barrington (Chapter XIV), p. 4

Image scan and text by Philip V. Allingham.

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Commentary

Dinah does not approve of Polly's mock humility (in response to Fred's favouring her brother with his benevolent interest) towards Fred as expressed in an exaggerated bow: "'I hope that this rustling finery will impart some dignity to my demeanour.' And drawing wide the massive folds, she made a very deep curtsey, throwing back her head haughtily as she resumed her height in admirable imitation of a bygone school of manners" (4). For a mere country doctor's daughter she surprisingly manages to dress in the latest fashion and express her wit as cogently as the greatest heiress in London.

Last modified August 2002