Anne of the Island · Chapter
XXVI: Enter Christine explained
Anne prepares for a reception at Redmond, wearing a dress embroidered by Phil.
What happens
Anne prepares for a reception at Redmond, wearing a dress embroidered by Phil. Phil teases Anne about Roy Gardner and mentions that Gilbert Blythe is seeing Christine Stuart. Anne meets Christine and feels a pang of jealousy, though she tries to reassure herself about her own appearance.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Marriage
Phil discusses her uncertain relationship with Jonas, and Anne's feelings are stirred by news of Gilbert and Christine.
Ambition and Career
Phil contemplates whether to pine away or pursue her B.A. and be sensible and useful.
Characters to notice
- Anne Shirley
Dresses for the reception, receives orchids from Roy, and feels unsettled upon hearing about Gilbert and Christine.
- Philippa Gordon
Admires Anne's dress, discusses Jonas Blake's feelings, and mentions Gilbert's involvement with Christine Stuart.
- Roy Gardner
Sends Anne white orchids and escorts her to the reception.
- Gilbert Blythe
Reported to be going about with Christine Stuart; seen at the reception talking to her.
- Christine Stuart
Introduced as a handsome girl studying music in Kingsport, with whom Gilbert is spending time.
- Aunt Jamesina
Presides over coats by the fire and expresses approval of Roy Gardner.
Key passages
“Anne, this is certainly your night for looking handsome. Nine nights out of ten I can easily outshine you. The tenth you blossom out suddenly into something that eclipses me altogether. How do you manage it?”
Phil compliments Anne on her rare moments of exceptional beauty.
Phil observes that Anne occasionally surpasses her in looks.
“Jonas sent me some dear pink rosebuds for the evening—but—he isn't coming himself. He said he had to lead a prayer meeting in the slums! I don't believe he wanted to come.”
Phil is disappointed that Jonas sent flowers but did not attend the reception.
Phil suspects Jonas may not truly care for her.
“By the way, Gilbert Blythe is going about constantly with Christine Stuart. Did you know?”
Phil informs Anne that Gilbert is frequently seen with Christine Stuart.
This news unsettles Anne.
“She looks just as I've always wanted to look. Rose-leaf complexion—starry violet eyes—raven hair—yes, she has them all. It's a wonder her name isn't Cordelia Fitzgerald into the bargain! But I don't believe her figure is as good as mine, and her nose certainly isn't.”
Anne envies Christine's appearance but reassures herself about her own figure and nose.
Anne compares herself to Christine and finds some comfort.