Chapter XXVI Summary

Jane dresses and Rochester practically drags her to the church, which is on the grounds of Thornfield. As they go inside, Jane notices two strangers pacing in the graveyard. At the point where the minister asks if anyone knows of an impediment to the marriage, a man named Briggs steps forward and states that Mr. Rochester has a wife. After offering solid evidence, Rochester admits that he has a wife who is insane and takes them to meet Bertha, who acts like a rabid animal.

Mr. Briggs tells Jane she will not be held responsible and her uncle will be glad to hear she is unharmed. Her uncle, upon learning of the upcoming nuptials, investigated Rochester. He is dying, so suggests Jane remain in England. She goes to her room and is calm as she changes dresses, but then grief overwhelms...