'His House in Order' Summary

The play opens with Hilary Jesson, the second wife of Colonel John Raby, lamenting her lot in life. She is constantly reminded of her predecessor, the first Mrs. Raby, who was a beautiful and accomplished woman. Hilary feels that she can never measure up to her and that her husband only married her out of pity. As the play progresses, Hilary begins to realize that her husband does love her, but that he is unable to fully express his feelings due to his grief over the loss of his first wife. Hilary also learns to accept herself for who she is and to find her own happiness. The play ends with Hilary and John finding a new level of understanding and love for each other.