Question

Read the given extract and answer the questions briefly.

Mrs. Jordan:	What bureau was that, Father?
Abel:	Why, my bureau is the one I bought?
Mrs. Jordan:	(pointing to the bureau) Was it that one? Father?
Abel:	Ah, that’s it. What’s it doing here? Eh? (A pause. The clock on the mantelpiece strikes six. Everyone looks at it.) Drat me if that isn’t my clock too! What the devil’s been going on in this house? (A slight pause.)
Ben:	Well, I’ll be hanged.
Mrs. Jordan:	I’ll tell you what’s been going on in this house. Father. Nothing short of robbery.
Mrs. Slater:	Be quiet, Elizabeth.
Mrs. Jordan:	(rising) I’ll not be quiet. Oh, I call it double-faced.
Henry:	Now now, Elizabeth.
Mrs. Jordan:	And you, too. Are you such a poor creature that you must do every dirty thing she tells you?
Mrs. Slater:	(rising) Remember where you are, Elizabeth.
Henry:	(rising) Come, come. No quarreling.
(The Dear Departed)

1. What does the dialogue between Mrs. Jordan and Mrs. Slater reveal about their relationship?
2. What is Mrs. Jordan implying about Henry when she says, “And you, too? Are you such a poor creature that you must do every dirty thing she tells you?”
3. How does Mrs. Jordan’s accusation of ‘robbery’ impact the atmosphere of the scene in the extract?
4. What does Abel’s reaction to finding his possessions in the living room suggest about his awareness of his daughters’ intentions?

Answer 1

1. The dialogue reveals a deep-seated rivalry/animosity between Mrs. Jordan and Mrs. Slater. Both women are quick to accuse and belittle each other, indicating underlying tensions and competition, especially regarding the inheritance.
2. Mrs. Jordan is implying that Henry is weak-willed and lacks independence, blindly following Mrs. Slater’s manipulative and self-serving instructions. Her statement highlights her disdain for Henry’s submissiveness and reveals her perception of him as a spineless accomplice in Mrs. Slater’s schemes.
3. It heightens the tension and drama in the scene. It exposes the selfishness and greed of the characters, creating a chaotic and morally charged atmosphere.
4. Abel’s reaction, particularly his question about what the bureau and clock are doing downstairs, suggests that he quickly discerns his daughters’ opportunistic behaviour and recognizes their greed and lack of respect.