Chapter XI Summary

After a sixteen hour journey, Jane arrives in Millcote. She finds no one to meet her and waits at an Inn until a person is located who drives her to Thornfield, where her governess position is. Mrs. Fairfax greets her as a guest, rather than employee. Jane settles into a comfortable room and learns of her charge, Adèle Varnes, a dependent of Edward Rochester, the owner of Thornfield. Mrs. Fairfax is the housekeeper. Jane meets Adèle, who only speaks French and who tells her of her mother's death. She shows off her ability to sing and dance.

Jane finds her pupil eager to please but not accustomed to regular study. Mrs. Fairfax gives Jane a tour of the house and Jane questions Mrs. Fairfax about their employer. Mrs. Fairfax's answers vaguely and Jane gives up trying to learn of...