# Odds and Ends explained — Anne of Avonlea

> Chapter companion for Anne of Avonlea by L. M. Montgomery.

## What happens

At breakfast, Anne tells Marilla about her tea with Miss Lavendar Lewis. Marilla recalls Lavendar's past and the broken engagement with Stephen Irving. The conversation is punctuated by Marilla's rebukes to Davy's mischievous behavior. Later, a letter arrives announcing the death of Richard Keith, who has left two thousand dollars in trust for Davy and Dora, ensuring they can stay at Green Gables permanently.

## Themes in this chapter

### Community and Belonging

The discussion of Miss Lavendar's isolation and the twins' permanent place at Green Gables highlights the importance of belonging and community ties.

### Change and Transition

The death of Richard Keith and the inheritance bring a significant change, securing the twins' future and altering Marilla's financial concerns.

## Character check-ins

### Anne Shirley

Describes Miss Lavendar's appearance and defends her uniqueness; later clears dishes and expresses relief that the twins can stay.

### Marilla Cuthbert

Recalls Lavendar Lewis's past, discusses Thomas Lynde's illness, and worries about the cost of keeping the twins until the inheritance is revealed.

### Davy Keith

Misbehaves at breakfast by licking his plate and squirming; later delighted to hear he can stay at Green Gables.

### Dora Keith

Prim and obedient; whispers to Anne about her fear of a buried uncle walking.

### Lavendar Lewis

Discussed as a former beauty who never grew old; her broken engagement to Stephen Irving is mentioned.

### Mrs. Rachel Lynde

Mentioned as being tied home caring for Thomas Lynde and feeling downhearted.

## Key lines

> Perhaps it was nothing very dreadful after all. I think the little things in life often make more trouble than the big things.

Anne suggests that minor issues can cause more problems than major ones.

_Anne's insight into the nature of trouble, reflecting her growing maturity._

> But what is the use of asking a jellyfish to sit up straight?

Marilla implies that expecting Thomas Lynde to exert willpower is pointless.

_Marilla's blunt assessment of Thomas Lynde's character._

## Links

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- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/anne_of_avonlea_se/chapters