# The Gardners’ Call explained — Anne of the Island

> Chapter companion for Anne of the Island by L. M. Montgomery.

## What happens

Anne receives a check for a sketch accepted by The Youth's Friend, sparking literary ambitions. Roy Gardner informs her that his mother and sisters will call on her, leading to anxiety. The visit occurs unexpectedly on Friday, with awkward moments involving cats and a hidden cake, but Anne finds a friend in Dorothy Gardner.

## Themes in this chapter

### Ambition and Career

Anne's acceptance of her sketch and payment mark a milestone in her literary ambitions.

### Love and Marriage

The Gardner family call signifies a step in Anne's relationship with Roy, highlighting social expectations and family approval.

## Character check-ins

### Anne Shirley

Anne receives her first payment for a literary sketch, feels anxious about the Gardner family call, and endures the visit with mixed emotions.

### Philippa Gordon

Phil distributes mail, suggests a wild revel for Anne's earnings, and helps save the visit with small talk.

### Aunt Jamesina

Aunt Jamesina offers solemn advice about the responsibility of writing and remains composed during the Gardner call.

### Priscilla Grant

Priscilla is cooking and hides a chocolate cake under a cushion when the Gardners arrive, later lamenting the ruined cake.

### Stella Maynard

Stella is writing a paper and frantically gathers her manuscript when the callers arrive.

### Roy Gardner

Roy informs Anne of his family's intended visit and is mentioned as having told Dorothy about Anne.

## Key lines

> The Youth’s Friend has accepted a little sketch I sent them a fortnight ago

Anne announces that a magazine has accepted her short piece for publication.

_This marks Anne's first paid literary success._

> My mother and sisters are coming to call on you

Roy tells Anne that his female relatives will visit her.

_This visit is a formal step in their relationship._

> I shall just be myself. I shall not try to make a good impression

Anne resolves to act naturally rather than put on a show.

_Despite her resolve, she still worries about her appearance._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/anne_of_the_island_se/chapters/xxxvi-the-gardners-call
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/anne_of_the_island_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/anne_of_the_island_se/chapters