The Good Soldier: Part 4, Chapter 2 Summary & Analysis

John turns the focus of his tale to his own life story in the wake of Florence’s death. As was previously mentioned, after Florence died, he had to go to Connecticut to settle her affairs. To make matters more complicated, Florence’s Uncle John died five days before Florence and John inherited both of their estates. In Connecticut, John discovers that Florence’s uncle wanted his money to go toward funding a treatment center for people with heart conditions because he thought suffered from one himself. However, in the aftermath of his death, Uncle John’s autopsy revealed that his heart was fine and that his lungs were the real issue. After some discussion and debate with Florence’s aunts, John decides to put the money toward a treatment center that would help people with heart and lung problems. This way, Uncle John’s wishes could be met, and Florence’s aunts could be appeased.

After settling his affairs in Connecticut, John travels to England to see Edward and Leonora at Branshaw Manor. When he arrives, he is told that Nancy, whom he hopes to marry, is leaving for India the following day. Not wanting to miss his chance, John makes plans to propose to Nancy. However, before he puts his plan into action, he speaks with Edward who catches him up on everything that has gone on between the Ashburnhams and Nancy.

Apparently, Leonora’s health has declined rapidly since returning from Nauheim. She regularly spends the day in bed with splitting headaches and she is profoundly depressed. Although Edward is more mobile than his wife, he, too, is on the decline. Try as she might, Nancy cannot make the situation better; in fact, although she doesn’t know it, she’s making things worse. One day Nancy sees Edward give his horse to someone less fortunate. Thinking it a great deed, she reports the act to Leonora. This is the last time that Nancy will ever naively give up information to her aunt because, in response, Leonora throws a fit. As usual, she is annoyed that her husband is wasting resources on the less fortunate. Additionally, she is increasingly annoyed by Nancy and Edward’s relationship, even if it is entirely innocent.

One night at dinner, Edward tells Nancy and Leonora that he is sending Nancy to India so she can be with her father. Edward thinks he is doing the right thing—he knows Nancy’s presence is destroying his marriage—but Leonora is appalled at the suggestion. Leonora thinks Edward is acting selfishly; after all, Nancy’s father is a brute who is sure to abuse her. That night, Leonora visits Nancy and tells her that Edward’s suffering is a result of his love for her. In return, Nancy admits that she loves Edward. However, she doesn’t think she should stay. Instead, she plans to travel to Glasgow to be with her mother. Leonora begs Nancy to stay because she thinks she is the only thing keeping Edward alive. However, Nancy declines.