Chapter 5 Summary

Dr. Proudie has just arrived in Barchester for the first time and has called Dr. Harding to discuss the appointment at Hiram's Hospital. On the way to the meeting, Dr. Harding sees the Archdeacon, who accompanies him to the meeting. The Archdeacon and Mr. Harding are both very conservative and quickly come to disapprove of the Proudies. In this first meeting, Dr. Proudie, Mrs. Proudie, Mr. Slope, and the Archdeacon size each other up as possible rivals for power in Barchester.

Mrs. Proudie and Mr. Slope are quick to establish their position and make a point of arguing about the sanctity of Sunday religious observance. They want to establish Sabbath schools for all the children in the area. They also want to take action against the railway company for allowing people to travel on Sundays. They try to engage the Archdeacon in debate...