Golf Stories · Chapter
The Rough Stuff explained
The Oldest Member tells a story about Ramsden Waters, a meek man who proposes to Eunice Bray after being paired with her in a mixed foursomes golf competition.
What happens
The Oldest Member tells a story about Ramsden Waters, a meek man who proposes to Eunice Bray after being paired with her in a mixed foursomes golf competition. On the course, Ramsden transforms into a confident, commanding golfer, surprising Eunice and asserting authority over her and her brother Wilberforce.
Themes in this chapter
Gender Roles and Relationships
The chapter explores the tension between Ramsden's meek demeanor off the course and his commanding presence on it, challenging Eunice's expectations of male behavior.
The Pursuit of Excellence
Ramsden's intense focus on winning the mixed foursomes reflects the golfer's quest for excellence, overriding social niceties.
Humor and Absurdity
The absurdity of Ramsden's transformation and his stern treatment of Eunice and Wilberforce on the course provides comic contrast to his earlier timidity.
Characters to notice
- Ramsden Waters
A meek man who proposes to Eunice Bray after being paired with her in a mixed foursomes; on the golf course, he becomes confident and commanding.
- Eunice Bray
A beautiful young woman who learns golf from her admirers; she is paired with Ramsden in the mixed foursomes and is startled by his transformation on the course.
- Wilberforce Bray
Eunice's little brother who accompanies the pair during the round; Ramsden orders him to be quiet.
- George Perkins
A 16-handicap youth paired with Marcella Bingley; considered a weak opponent by Ramsden.
- Marcella Bingley
A weather-beaten female golfer with bobbed hair and strong wrists; she once appeared in the women's open championship and is a serious rival.
Key passages
“She is a dear girl... a dear girl in every respect. But somehow—I don't know—when I see her playing golf I can't help thinking that woman's place is in the home.”
A young man expresses discomfort with his fiancée's lighthearted approach to golf, suggesting that women should focus on domestic roles.
This sets up the chapter's exploration of gender expectations in golf.
“What we've got to do is to play steadily. Don't try any fancy shots. Go for safety. Miss Bingley is a tough proposition, but George Perkins is sure to foozle a few, and if we play safe we've got 'em cold.”
Ramsden gives Eunice a confident, strategic plan for the match, surprising her with his assertiveness.
Highlights Ramsden's transformation on the course.