The Expedition of Humphry Clinker

“Those children of my sister are left me for a perpetual source of vexation—what business have people to get children to plague their neighbors.”

Matthew makes this comment at the start of the novel, complaining about having to be responsible for his niece and nephew, Lydia and Jeremy Melford. This comment reinforces the non-normative nature of the family constellation: In a more traditional family narrative, Matthew would be the father of the two young people, and he would be accompanied by a wife, rather than his unmarried sister. The comment shows that Matthew can be an introverted misanthrope, preferring a quiet life as a bachelor to family life. It also shows the comic ironies of him being thrust into a position of responsibility for two young people, and foreshadows the surprising final revelation that Matthew actually is a father after all.

“We servints should see all and say nothing.”

Winifred makes this comment in her first letter. The comment is ironic in that she will continue to write to Mary Jones, sharing updates on events occurring within the Bramble-Melford family, and ultimately will supply the letter that closes the novel. The comment reveals the significance of social position within the novel; Winifred is keenly aware of how she is expected to behave due to her role as a servant. The comment shows Winifred’s awareness of both her constraints and her power: As a household servant, she has access to intimate information about her employers.