V explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Social Class and Mobility

  Margaret Vance's concern for the Dryfooses' social isolation and Beaton's reflections on their wealth versus social impotence highlight class dynamics.

• Art and Commerce

  The conversation about Every Other Week, Beaton's artistic role, and Wetmore's comments on picture-buying stages illustrate the tension between art and commercial interests.

Characters to notice

• Angus Beaton

  Beaton attends the reception, discusses the Dryfooses with Margaret Vance, and reflects on his complicated feelings for Alma Leighton.

• Margaret Vance

  Margaret engages in intellectual conversation, considers visiting the Dryfooses out of social duty, and shows interest in art and literature.

• Basil March

  March is introduced to Margaret Vance at the reception and converses with her about Boston and New York.

• Alma Leighton

  Alma is discussed by Beaton; he admires her talent and independence, and reflects on their relationship.

• Fulkerson

  Fulkerson is mentioned as the one who introduced March to Miss Vance and as the financial backer of Every Other Week.

Key passages

• ““Oh, they seem to have Mr. Beaton,” Margaret answered, and Beaton felt obscurely flattered by her reference to his patronage of the Dryfooses.”

  Margaret Vance notes that the Dryfooses have Beaton's support, and Beaton is subtly pleased by her acknowledgment.

  Highlights Beaton's connection to the Dryfooses and his vanity.

• ““It’s as chic⁠—that detestable little word!⁠—as those new French books.””

  Margaret Vance praises Every Other Week as stylish, comparing it to modern French literature.

  Reflects the magazine's artistic quality and contemporary appeal.

• ““I mean the Miss Dryfooses. It seems really barbarous, if nobody goes near them.””

  Margaret Vance expresses concern that no one visits the Dryfoos sisters, calling it socially neglectful.

  Shows Margaret's social conscience and awareness of class barriers.