ABSTRACT
A new chapter in a novel is something like a new scene in a play; and when the author draw up the curtain this time, reader, you must fancy you see a room in the George Inn at Millcote, with such large-figured papering on the walls as inn rooms have: such a carpet, such furniture, such ornaments on the mantel-piece, such prints; including a portrait of George the Third, and another of the Prince of Wales, and a representation of the death of Wolfe. Every aspect of description that has been discussed so far has been related, in the first instance at least, to characterisation. With the transition from the individual personality to what lies outside it, the subject grows unwieldy. Many a character in fiction is appropriately and effectively introduced by an account of Mr Dombey's living-room. Mr Dombey's mansion changes internally and externally in accordance with his fluctuating fortunes and aspirations.
