Antic Hay · Chapter
XXI explained
Gumbril returns to Mrs.
What happens
Gumbril returns to Mrs. Viveash, who is suffering from a headache. He reveals that Emily has vanished and he plans to leave for Paris the next morning on business for his pneumatic trousers. They embark on a farewell tour of London, visiting Gumbril Senior, who has sold his model of London to buy back Porteous's books. The chapter ends with them driving to see Shearwater in his laboratory.
Themes in this chapter
Modern Ennui and Disillusionment
Gumbril and Mrs. Viveash's restless journey through London and their conversation about emptiness and escape reflect a deep sense of ennui.
Commerce and Commodification
Gumbril's business trip for pneumatic trousers and the sale of Gumbril Senior's model for money highlight the commodification of art and invention.
Characters to notice
- Theodore Gumbril
Returns to Mrs. Viveash, reveals Emily's disappearance, and plans to leave for Paris.
- Myra Viveash
Suffering from a headache, she listens to Gumbril's talk and later joins him on a farewell tour.
- Gumbril Senior
Visited by Gumbril and Mrs. Viveash; reveals he sold his model of London to buy back Porteous's books.
- Shearwater
Mentioned as the destination for the final ride—to his laboratory.
Key passages
“Well, here I am again.”
Gumbril announces his return to Mrs. Viveash.
Opens the chapter with Gumbril's arrival.
“I propose to leave the country tomorrow morning.”
Gumbril states his plan to depart for Paris.
Reveals his intention to escape after Emily's disappearance.
“I didn't want to blare it about in front of strangers, but the fact is, I've sold it.”
Gumbril Senior confesses he sold his model of London to the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Explains the sacrifice made to help Porteous.