A Prefect’s Uncle · Chapter
XVII: The Winter Term explained
The winter term begins with Gethryn feeling optimistic about his position as head of Leicester's House.
What happens
The winter term begins with Gethryn feeling optimistic about his position as head of Leicester's House. He receives a letter from Farnie, who has left for a school in France and returned the four pounds he owed. Gethryn finally reveals to Marriott and Wilson the truth about his absence during the M.C.C. match, explaining that he left to find Farnie. Marriott urges Gethryn to also tell Norris to resolve the tension affecting their football combination, but Gethryn is reluctant. The chapter ends with the two discussing the need to address the issue for the sake of the team.
Themes in this chapter
Honor and Reputation
Gethryn's decision to finally reveal the truth about the M.C.C. match is driven by a desire to clear his name and restore his standing, while Marriott argues that telling Norris is necessary for the team's success.
Friendship and Loyalty
Gethryn confides in Marriott and Wilson, trusting them with his secret. Marriott's concern for the team's performance reflects his loyalty to the school and his friends.
Sportsmanship and Competition
The chapter focuses on the importance of teamwork in football, with Marriott frustrated that Norris's personal grudge is undermining the First Fifteen's combination.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Gethryn
Returns to Beckford for the winter term, feeling confident as head of the House. He reveals the truth about the M.C.C. match to Marriott and Wilson, and receives a letter from Farnie returning the borrowed money.
- Marriott
Listens to Gethryn's explanation about the M.C.C. match and later presses Gethryn to tell Norris the truth to improve their football combination.
- Wilson
Present during Gethryn's revelation, making toast. Gethryn instructs him not to repeat what he hears.
- Farnie
Has left Beckford for a school in France. He writes to Gethryn, apologizing for the M.C.C. match and enclosing a cheque for four pounds.
- Norris
Mentioned as the other centre three-quarter; Marriott believes his grudge against Gethryn is harming the team's performance.
- Reece
Gethryn tells him the story about the M.C.C. match, but Reece shows little emotion and is sidetracked by Gethryn's long-winded stories.
Key passages
“I do bar keeping a secret.”
Gethryn expresses his relief at finally sharing the truth about the M.C.C. match.
Highlights Gethryn's discomfort with secrecy and his preference for openness.
“You must tell Norris. It's all rot.”
Marriott insists that Gethryn should explain the situation to Norris to resolve their conflict.
Shows Marriott's pragmatic approach to mending the team's dynamics.
“I am writing to tell you my father is sending me to a school in France, so I shall not come back to Beckford. I am sorry about the M.C.C. match, and I enclose the four pounds you lent me.”
Farnie's letter informs Gethryn of his departure and returns the borrowed money, expressing regret.
Reveals Farnie's unexpected conscience and closes that chapter of the story.