Charlotte Temple: A Tale of Truth

Lucy plans to bring Charlotte home and throw her a birthday party in their garden. Mr. Temple thinks Lucy will spoil Charlotte, but he assents to the plan. They agree that Charlotte is a good daughter who, with the helpful example set by her mother, will obey her parents’ wishes.

The author addresses Lucy’s pride. She then questions if “daughters of folly” have ever achieved their goals (63), suggesting they all find disappointment: “I see it in the wan cheek, sunken eye, and air of chagrin, which ever mark the children of dissipation” (63). Young women, the author suggests, can find ease and contentment through virtuous behavior, including fulfilling filial duties and practicing religion. The author argues that true peace occurs when one wishes happiness for everyone. Lucy experiences this peace and virtuous contentment as she plan’s Charlotte’s birthday celebration.

Charlotte is ambivalent about her upcoming meeting with Montraville, oscillating between concern and excitement. She wants to go to Madame Du Pont, but if she does, she will have to incriminate Mademoiselle La Rue. Although she resolved to break off her connection with Montraville, she repeatedly reads the letter throughout the day and nervously keeps track of the time.