The Last Chronicle of Barset

The Last Chronicle of Barset features the receipt of a cheque by the indigent but learned perpetual curate of Hogglestock, the Reverend Josiah Crawley.

The novel then develops he attitudes of those around him, some of whom, not least Mrs Proudie, instantly conclude that Crawley stole the cheque.The narrative is maintained by numerous sub-plots.

One that is continued from The Small House at Allington, involves Lily Dale and Johnny Eames tenuously connected to the main thread .

By contrast Crawley's daughter, Grace, is courted by Henry Grantly, son of Archdeacon Grantly, which poses problems for the archdeacon who recoils from her lack of rank or wealth.

Initially therefore he joins the accusatory group led by Mrs Proudie; the Bishop does not agree but succumbs to Mrs Proudie's familiar dominance.