Yet it is their strange persistence in living as husband and wife, even after the shocking revelation that Ferdinand was actually alive, that creates a scandal. Wortle, though religious, sympathises with the Peacockes and is understanding of their love for each other and hatred for Colonel Lefroy.
The remarkable fact that the Peacockes continue to cohabitate as husband and wife, even after learning that Ferdinand had been alive all along, creates a public uproar. Wortle, though deeply committed to his faith, shows compassion for the Peacockes and recognizes their devotion to each other and their intense dislike of Colonel Lefroy.