Desmond

Plotline

Volume 1

Letter 1 Desmond to Mr. Bethel: The story begins in Bath, England where Smith introduces her hero Lionel Desmond. Desmond is a young, wealthy, and single man from England. Although he comes from a place of privilege, he is strong Jacobian supporter (meaning her supports the French Revolution). Although he is single, his affections are cast solely on a married woman who is named Geraldine Verney (Waverly is her maiden name). In this letter, Desmond writes to his friend Erasamus Bethel, an older family friend, telling him about his travels to Margate, England to meet Mrs. Fairfax (Mr. Bethel's cousin) and her daughters.

Letter 2 Desmond to Bethel: Desmond writes again to Bethel, relaying his time spent with Mrs. Fairfax and her two daughters. Despite the fact both are attractive, young, and accomplished Desmond is not interested in them due to his love for Geraldine Verney. Desmond, in an attempt to impress Geraldine, Desmond volunteered to escort her younger brother---Waverly---to France with Desmond. Waverly remains with Desmond at the Fairfaxes, however, he is snubbed by the two daughters since they are more interested in flirting with Lord Newsminster (a wealthy but unintelligent Lord from the area).

Letter 3 Bethel to Desmond: Bethel warns Desmond against falling in love with Geraldine (since she is married). Bethel draws on his own experience and retells the story of his young foolish behavior. He starts by relaying when he foolishly almost spent all of his spending money by partying and gambling (which he was able to recover most but not all) and then told Desmond about when he married a poor woman whose vanity consumed her. His wife spent absurd amounts of money and then left him for another man (leaving Bethel and their children behind). Bethel recovered financially slightly, but lost a lot of money and a wife from this instance.

Letter 4 Desmond to Bethel: Desmond responds to Bethel saying his love to Geraldine is true/pure, and he is not being foolish. Then, he goes on to recount a story about Mrs. Fairfax and Lord Newminster. Newminster, being an arrogant idiot, came to the Farifax's house where they all adore him; once he was there, he put his dirty boots on the couch and started to talk to and feed the dog chocolate and bread (despite the fact he was acting rudely and vapidly, the ladies all swooned over him because he was an aristocrat). At that moment a man named the General came bringing the news that France abolished nobility; all characters were upset except Desmond. On the way home, Miss Fairfax brings the topic up to Desmond. Desmond's clear support of the French Revolution angers her, causing her to try to catch up to Lord Newminster's carriage.

Letter 5 Desmond to Bethel: Desmond is waiting on Geralidne's brother Waverly to leave for France, but Waverly is off on a trip and will meet him in a week. Also, Desmond mentions to Bethel that his uncle, Uncle Danby, reached out and threatened Desmond not to leave for France or else Desmond would not get his inheritance. Desmond disregards his Uncle Danby's advice and goes anyway.

Letter 6 Desmond to Bethel: Waverly did not show up for his trip, but instead sent a messenger saying he will meet Desmond in France (Waverly instead was out carousing with a bunch of fake friends). The Doctor and Clergyman (Mr. Sidebottom) fought with a man while they were at the tavern over politics. After discussing politics, both men snub a poor French widow whose husband died leaving her destitute in England; she asked the men for money, but instead of giving real help Mr. Sidebottom gives nothing and the Doctor gives her sixpence (which is not enough for the passage) and chastising advice. Desmond helps her, pays for their trips, and travels with her on the boat to France.

Letter 7 Desmond to Bethel: Desmond introduces his new friend Montefleuri in his letter to Bethel. Desmond takes note in this letter that France is not dead (it is not war-torn) but alive (it is thriving and beautiful).

Letter 8 Desmond to Bethel: Desmond explains Monteflueir's backstory. Montfleuri is 35 years old, his father died in America which caused his mother to send his sisters off to Convents, Monteflueri rescued two who were in the process of becoming nuns, and then his mom died. Desmond also mentions Monteflueir's younger sister (Madame de Boisbelle); he calls her beautiful and interesting, and also mentions her husband unfaithful and not present. Monteflueri takes Desmond to a party, where Montefleuri and an Abbe get into a fight over the French Revolution.

Letter 9 Desmond to Bethel: Desmond comments how Mr. Bethel has not responded. He also discusses a long political discussion he had with Montefluri. He ends the letter saying Geraldine sent a large letter for his brother, and Desmond hopes there is a letter in there for him.

Letter 10 Desmond to Bethel: Desmond offered to help Waverly with some family affairs so he could write to Geraldine. Although Desmond knows he is trying to pursue a married woman, he asks Bethel not to lecture him. Desmond says thank you for writing back (although the readers never saw Bethel's response letter). Desmond laments that Geraldine is unhappy because Mr. Verney (her husband) is gambling like crazy (Desmond read about it in the paper). In this letter Desmond also admires Madame de Boisbelle (who he clearly likes) and talks about Montefleuri's other younger sister Julie who always has a sense of sadness to her since she was so young when she was prepared for the nunnery. Waverly at first liked Julie, but his sister wanted him to marry someone seriously and Waverly and Julie aren't a good match (due to different religions and home-countries). Desmond remarks on the beauty of the Montfleuri's estate, and how Montfleuri is a good master to tenants (the tenants are happy because they are treated well and have nice housing). Despite Montefleuri's positive efforts in the community, ironically the local Monks try to counteract Monteflueri's efforts. Although Montefleuri has trouble with the monastery in general, he has a good relationship with one Monk named Father Cypriano. Desmond ends the letter saying he must go because Josephine (aka Madame de Boisbelle) called him away (which indicates their romantic relationship).

Letter 11 Bethel to Desmond: Bethel tells Desmond to pursue Josephine and not Geraldine. Bethel tells Desmond about Geradline's situation (since he assumed Desmond was moving on). Mr. Verney lost their estate (it was already mortgaged). Due to this, Mr. Verney is trying to gather more money, but it has placed Gerdaline in a bad situation, Mr. Bethel ends his letter by responding to Desmond's politics. Bethel is hesitant to agree with the supporters of the French Revolution on the basis that he likes the principle but wonders if it is a reality.

Letter 12 Desmond to Bethel: Desmond is visiting Monteflueri's uncle, Comete d’ Hauteville. On the way they visit another one of Montefleuri's sisters who is a Carmelite Nun (this trip was upsetting because she is always slightly sad). When they visit the uncle's property, Desmond takes note of all of the depressed and unhappy peasants working on a depleted land. The servant that greets them, Le Maire, is rude to them. Montefeluri notices his uncle's servants shooting the birds and he asks why, and Le Maire explains why that is to prevent the peasants from eating them (the Uncle would rather they starve then feed off of his land). Montfleuri and Desmond are coldly greeted by Montefleuri's uncle. Desmond, later that night, can't sleep and dreams of Geraldine outside in a hurricane. In this dream, he tries to save her but both her and her child dies. Desmond, unable to sleep, decides to take a walk outside in the garden and graveyard.

Letter 13 Desmond to Bethel: Desmond explains how Joespehine wrote to Montefleuri, while they were visiting the uncle, asking when they will return; if Josephine said if it was not soon, she and Julie would join them. Montfleuri makes a joke about Desmond and sister's attachment (despite the fact she is married). While staying with the Uncle, Desmond recounts that there were lots of arguments between the Uncle and Montefleuri. One common argument was that the Uncle owes Montfleuri money from an inheritance from Monteflueri's mother. Another common topic was politics (Montefleuri was in favor of the revolution while his Uncle was not). Desmond, the Montefleuri's Uncle, and Montefleuri's Uncle's friend at one point get into an argument about politics.

Letter 14 Desmond to Bethel: Desmond tells the story of a sailor named Brenton who he met.

Letter 15 Desmond to Bethel: Desmond is very upset about Gerdaline's position. He is deciding whether or not he will return home to England to help her or travel south with Montfleuri to see the rest of Europe. Josephine was sad to see Desmond go, but was nice about it. Desmond decides he can't help Gerdaline but will leave the next morning to help her brother Waverly who is in trouble in another part of France (as seen in the next letter).

Letter 16 Waverly's servant to Desmond: The servant claims Waverly is in trouble; Waverly agreed to a marriage with a woman he has an affair with (and for some reason he cannot get out of it).

Volume 2

Letter 1 Geraldine to Miss Waverly/Fanny (Geraldine's younger sister): Geraldine is upset with her situation; she is particularly upset that she involved Desmond and now Desmond was hurt by engaging. She complains about Mr. Verney (for not being home and being in Yorkshire), but she chastises herself for complaining. At the end, she asks for information on Josephine (although she does not admit it, Geraldine is kind of jealous).

Letter 2 William Carmicheal to Geraldine: William Carmicheal, the doctor of Desmond, explained what happened to Geraldine: Desmond tried to stop Waverly from marrying this woman who he had an affair with, was forced into a duel with the woman's brother, and shot in the shoulder and lower arm. Montefluri and Josephine came to take care of him, but Desmond asks the doctor to reach out to Geraldine to let her know he is OK.

Letter 3 Bethel to Desmond: Bethel expresses concern over Desmond's health and he relays that Desmond's Uncle Danby blamed this misfortune on Demond's politics. Bethel also mentions that Fanny is upset over this duel but also enchanted with it (she romanticized it). Bethel ends the letter saying there is no good news regarding Mr. Verney (his situation is getting worse).

Letter 4 Desmond to Bethel: Desmond thanks Bethel for offering to come and writes about how Mr. Venrey has taken more money and left Geraldine practically destitute (and she has no one to turn to). Desmond asks Bethel to pay off Verney's debts to save Geraldine (and her house). Desmond says he wishes he could do it but is crippled and is still in France.

Letter 5 Bethel to Desmond: Bethel says he took care of Desmond's wishes very carefully (so no one would question propriety). Behel, on behalf of Desmond, also secretly pays off the family who Waverly engaged with. Bethel warns Desmond not to become too involved, yet he keeps telling Desmond about Geraldine's situation. Bethel takes a trip to visit Geraldine, and while there she reveals her concern for Desmond as well as her frustrations with her husband. Bethel feels badly and tries to comfort her, but then Mr. Verney and Lord Newminster come home drunk. Mr. Verney is incredibly rude to Geraldine (he ignores and insults her) and calls his children encumbrances. Bethel chastises him and asks why he got married if it is such a burden. Mr. Verney responds saying her beauty pulled him in and that he married out of convenience Mr. Verney and Lord Newminster prepare to leave again, but before they do Fanny comes. Fanny yells at them, and leaves to cry. Bethel follows her to comfort her. Bethel, in the letter, compliments Fanny (remarking on her strong character) and suggests Desmond marry her and not pursue Geraldine.

Volume 3

Letter 1 Desmond to Bethel: Desmond visited Geraldine after Duc de Romagnecourt came again, and Geradline recounted how this time he strongly insisted (or forcingly insisted) she come with him because her husband owes him debts (and he insinuates his desires for her as well). She tells him she can't to which he responds he will be here for the week waiting for her. Geraldine gets upset in front of Desmond which in return causes Desmond to get angry. Geraldine calms him down and Desmond then suggests he stay with her (for protection). Geraldine turns him down and says instead she will go to her mother (although she doesn't think she will be welcomed there)

Letter 2 Geraldine to Fanny: Geraldine writes to Fanny saying Duc de Romagnecourt pursues her so she is coming home with Desmond (she acknowledges the rumors/impropriety associated with it).

Letter 3 Bethel to Desmond: Bethel relays the time he met up with Fanny and explains how upset Fanny was over the fact her mother did not accept Geraldine when she came home (since she refused her husband's wishes). Fanny is also upset because her mother refuses to let her see Geraldine. Later that day, Bethel meets with Geraldine who is a wreck because her family has forsaken her. Due to her circumstances she decides to leave, however William is sick again.

Letter 4 Mrs. Waverly to Geraldine: Mrs. Waverly (Geraldine's and Fanny's mother) rebukes Geraldine for her behavior. She calls Geraldine's behavior with Desmond improper. She ends the letter saying Geraldine needs to follow her husband's commands especially because she can't come stay with her.

Letter 5 Desmond to Bethel: Desmond is very upset over Geraldine's situation and explains how long he has loved her. Desmond dispels the rumor that has a French mistress or wife. Desmond also expresses that he thinks Bethel should get married. Desmond mentions how he is getting very antsy, and says he will come to Bath if Bethel doesn't write back soon about Geraldine.

Letter 6 Bethel to Desmond: Bethel tells Desmond NOT to come home because it would only hurt Geraldine. He mentions how Geraldine came to tell him she has no choice but to go to Mr. Verney. Apparently, Mr. Verney sent some money and said she could bring her children if she ‘had’ to. Fanny, upon hearing this news, is a wreck but Geraldine remains strong for Fanny. Bethel sends one of his servants (Thomas Wrightson) with Geraldine and gives her some money for the trip.

Historical context

Desmond took place during a time of revolutionary change world-wide (specifically in Europe and its colonies). Desmond is one of many novels which belongs in a larger discussion regarding the validity and the morality of the French Revolution. The French Revolution was a unique revolution in the sense that this revolution was changing an already established political system and country. Although the American Revolution came before the French Revolution, the French Revolution had more impact in Europe for a few different reasons: (1) France was closer to other European countries thus it could strongly influence neighboring countries (while America was far away), (2) France would be undergoing a domestic change versus America was simply a colony claiming independence, and Europe—Britain in particular—understood the value of liberty and independence (similar to how a child claims independence from its mother). What made the French Revolution so radical (and a strong discussion point among many scholars and authors) was because the idea of abolishing a monarchy and rebuilding an already established country was completely foreign. This radical thinking spread to other neighboring countries, such as Great Britain; however, in these other countries conservatives (Anti-Jacobins) dominated and the aristocracy was kept.

Those who were in favor of the French Revolution and wanted to abolish the monarchy were the Jacobins (their name derived from a club---the Jacobin Club--- where they all used to gather) and those opposed to the French Revolution who wanted to keep the aristocracy were called Anti-Jacobins. The Jacobins were a complicated and radical group; originally, they started off as a relatively moderate group that was integral to the beginning of the French revolution. Once the aristocratic government was overthrown in August of 1792 and the Jacobins transitioned into a place of power, however, they became more extremist. Maximillien Robespierre took over and their policies became oppressive and violent (these policies included price controls, food seizures, and imprisonment) which ultimately led to the Reign of Terror (Lafayette at one point called them “a sect that infringes sovereignty and tyrannies citizens”). Ironically, most of the leaders of the Jacobins were from the bourgeoisie (the wealthy middle-class population of France) not the sans-culottes (the poor population of France). Some of the goals of the Jacobins included the separation of participation in politics from land-owning, strengthening general radical ideals, and protecting the French government from attack of French aristocracy. Alternatively, the Anti-Jacobins were the individuals who wanted to follow the Status Quo regarding politics. Naturally, those whose positions of power were supported by this ‘Status Quo’ (aristocracy/wealthy) wished to maintain the old system.

Themes

Forbidden Love: This trope of forbidden love can primarily be seen through the characters Desmond and Geraldine. Desmond is single but Geraldine is married, so their relationship must stay strictly platonic (and follow all rules of propriety). Desmond, despite the fact their relationship is forbidden, still pursues Geraldine under the pretenses of their ‘friendship’ (he constantly follows her while traveling, provides her family with money, protects her while traveling, and eventually marries her at the end). This forbidden love trope is seen most strongly through Desmond and Geraldine, but it is not necessarily consistent throughout the novel. Desmond does have an affair with another married French woman named Josephine (Monetflurei's sister) but French customs allow this affair (while British customs deem it improper).

The hypocrisy of the wealthy, noble, and the Clergy: This trope is seen many times throughout the duration of this novel. Some example of this include when a clergy man would not help the poor French Woman who had no money and no protection to sail to France; the Clergy man, instead of doing the christlike thing and giving her money and escorting her, instead gave her a little money (but not enough) and then chastised her. Another prime example of this is when Montefleuri's uncle, out of rage and bitterness to the French Revolution, ordered for all the birds on his property to be killed so peasants would not be able to eat them (it was a cruel form of punishment). Although Comete d’ Hauteville is wealthy, he feels so justified in his title that he is willing to let those less fortunate starve.

Interrogation and Subversion of Custom: Throughout the novel, Smith, through the character Desmond, questions and undermines societal customs regarding aristocracy, marriages, and general social hierarchies of the time. This trope can be seen in many ways through many different characters throughout the novel. There are two possible reasons why Smith emphasized this theme so strongly: (1) Charlotte Smith struggled financially to keep her family afloat while her husband practically abandoned her and her children. Due to marriage customs at the time, she was not allowed to divorce him despite the fact he was abusive and not fulfilling his role of providing for his family. Smith subtly through this novel (as well as her other novels) interrogates and undermines marriage expectations and laws (particularly for the woman). (2) Since this is a Jacobin novel, Smith used the character Desmond to interrogate and undermine the aristocratic system. This interrogation of custom is most commonly seen through the clear Jacobin sentiments throughout the novel, however other social customs are interrogated as well. Smith interrogates marriage customs through the dire situation Geraldine is stuck in. Geraldine, despite the fact she embodies the ideal woman, is stuck in a marriage that ultimately is emotionally and physically abusive (her husband wants to make her a prostitute for money and is willing to abandon his children). Geraldine, due to marriage customs and the codes from The Cult of True Womanhood, cannot escape this marriage and is forced to follow her husband's commands despite the danger it puts her and her children in. Another societal custom that is examined is the concept of aristocracy. Smith throughout the novel highlights how asinine this concept is, specifically because having a title does not necessarily mean having a strong character. An example of this is Desmond's observations between Miss Fairfax and Lord Newminster; Lord Newminster lacks class and grace yet Ms. Fairfax swoons over him because she wants to marry him for his title. This scene just shows the absurdity in aristocracy leading to power.