Chapter 29

Summary

For three days afterwards, Jane lies in bed in a kind of stupor – she hears visitors coming in but cannot respond or get up. From their conversations, Jane knows that Mary and Diana do not regret their hospitality, and St. John says that Jane needs rest, but a doctor is not required. On the fourth day, Jane finally gets up, and dresses slowly and painfully. She goes down to the kitchen, where Hannah greets her. Hannah asks Jane if she is a beggar. Jane articulately and logically explains to Hannah that she was wrong to make assumptions about Jane due to her poverty, and wrong to shut Jane out in the rain. Jane totally owns Hannah in their conversation, pointing out that the old servant was thoroughly prejudiced and mistaken. Hannah gamely admits her mistake, all is forgiven, and they part as friends.

Later, Jane talks with Mary and Diana. Diana seems to take charge, and Jane is happy to let her be the leader. Mary is gentle and sincere, but slightly more introverted. St. John is exceedingly cold. He does not say a word to Jane, and then when he finally does talk, asks her painful questions, such as her marital status, and her previous residence. Jane decides to tell them part of her story. She explains her life in brief. She does not tell them about Mr. Rochester, the abortive wedding, and the locations she stayed at previously. She only says that she had to leave her position as a governess abruptly. Jane admits she is using a fake last name, but does not tell them her real one nonetheless.  After Jane’s tale, St. John agrees to help her get a job.

Reaction

I can completely understand Jane’s incredulity and gratefulness towards St. John, Mary, and Diana. Jane’s desperate search for food and shelter was one of those situations where everyone seems unsympathetic and selfish, until one person steps up and restores faith in humanity. Mary and Diana seem like very sweet, intelligent girls who Jane will get along with famously. St. John is another story. Yes, he saved Jane’s life. Nevertheless, he also created one of the most awkward moments in the book by not even acknowledging Jane’s presence while they wait for the ladies to bring tea. He just sits there and reads as Jane sits there and watches him. Later, however, he continues to help her by promising to get her employment somewhere. Strange guy.