The Mayor of Casterbridge

Elizabeth-Jane waits for Henchard to return. At this time, a man named Joshua Jopp arrives at the office. He is the man who has applied for the position of corn manager. He is quickly sent away when Henchard returns, his face twitching with anger and “bitter disappointment” at the swift dismissal (48). Elizabeth-Jane introduces herself to Henchard. She says that she is the daughter of his relative, Susan Newson. Henchard is taken aback. He notes that Elizabeth-Jane does not seem to know the truth about their possible relationship. He invites her into his office and asks her a series of questions about her life. Writing a note to Susan, he adds five guineas and sends it away with Elizabeth-Jane. He studies the girl, feeling a rush of emotions. In turn, she feels touched that he cares so much about a relative stranger. After a quick flash of paranoia, Henchard dismisses the thought that these people may be impostors. Elizabeth-Jane returns to her mother and is made to describe the meeting in detail. In his note, Henchard asks Susan to meet him at the Ring on a local road that evening. She is told to say nothing more to Elizabeth-Jane. Susan examines the five guineas and suspects that this is Henchard’s attempt to buy her back.