Love Among the Chickens · Chapter
The Calm Before the Storm explained
Garnet discovers that Ukridge and his wife have abruptly left the farm without warning, leaving him in charge.
What happens
Garnet discovers that Ukridge and his wife have abruptly left the farm without warning, leaving him in charge. He realizes the creditors will soon descend, but decides to stay in Combe Regis to continue his courtship of Phyllis. He convinces Beale and Mrs. Beale to remain by promising to pay their back wages from an upcoming story payment. Garnet reflects on Ukridge's history of shady financial schemes.
Themes in this chapter
Social Class and Financial Struggle
Ukridge's flight and the looming creditors highlight the precarious financial situation of the farm and the characters' struggles with debt.
Friendship and Loyalty
Garnet's decision to stay and face the consequences of Ukridge's actions, despite being abandoned, underscores his loyalty.
Optimism vs. Reality
Garnet's determination to remain in Combe Regis for Phyllis clashes with the harsh reality of Ukridge's desertion and impending financial trouble.
Characters to notice
- Jeremy Garnet
Takes charge after Ukridge's sudden departure, resolves to stay and face the creditors to maintain his position with Phyllis.
- Stanley Featherstonehaugh Ukridge
Flees the farm with his wife without warning, leaving debts and chaos behind; his past shady dealings are recalled.
- Beale
The hired man who informs Garnet of Ukridge's departure and agrees to stay on despite unpaid wages.
- Mrs. Beale
Mentioned as Beale's wife; she also agrees to remain at the farm.
- Bob
Garnet's dog, accompanies him on a stroll after dinner.
Key passages
“Beale, are you drunk? Wish I was, sir.”
Garnet asks Beale if he is drunk, and Beale replies that he wishes he were.
Opening exchange revealing Beale's stoic demeanor.
“They've bolted. So I says to the missus, sir. It struck me right off, in a manner of speaking.”
Garnet concludes that Ukridge has fled, and Beale agrees that the thought occurred to him immediately.
Garnet and Beale confirm Ukridge's abrupt departure.
“It's a pretty place, Mr. Garnet, sir. It is, but about other considerations? There's the matter of wages.”
Beale acknowledges the farm's beauty, and Garnet raises the issue of unpaid wages.
Garnet negotiates with Beale to stay on despite the financial uncertainty.
“He might at least have warned me, and given me the option of leaving the sinking ship with him.”
Garnet feels betrayed that Ukridge did not inform him of the plan to leave.
Garnet's reflection on Ukridge's lack of consideration.