Chapter 16 Summary

Mr. Slope decides to go forward with his plan to marry Eleanor. As for the hospital wardenship, he wants to find a way for the Bishop to make the decision in favor of Dr. Harding so that Mrs. Proudie will not hold him personally responsible for the change. Unfortunately for him, Mrs. Proudie has already congratulated Mrs. Quiverful on her husband's selection as warden of the hospital and is, therefore, not willing to go back on her word. Mr. Slope is then forced to make a stand against Mrs. Proudie and get the Bishop to take his side.

Mr. Slope visits Eleanor in order to reassure her of his support for her father as warden. Now that he views himself as a potential suitor, Mr. Slope makes many gestures and comments to establish intimacy between himself and Eleanor. Eleanor is not sure what...