# Chapter XVII explained — McTeague

> Chapter companion for McTeague by Frank Norris.

## What happens

Old Grannis, having sold his bookbinding apparatus, feels a profound sense of loss and regret, fearing the end of his quiet companionship with Miss Baker. However, Miss Baker, overcoming her timidity, brings him a cup of tea, leading to a tender confession of their long-suppressed feelings. They finally bridge the physical and emotional distance between them, finding happiness together.

## Themes in this chapter

### Isolation and Loneliness

Old Grannis experiences deep loneliness after selling his apparatus, fearing the loss of his quiet bond with Miss Baker.

### Marriage and Domesticity

The chapter culminates in the formation of a domestic partnership between Old Grannis and Miss Baker, symbolizing a long-delayed romantic union.

## Character check-ins

### Old Grannis

Sits sadly in his room after selling his binding apparatus, feeling he has lost his connection to Miss Baker.

### Miss Baker

Overcomes her shyness to bring Old Grannis tea, initiating their long-awaited union.

## Key lines

> He had sold his happiness for money; he had bartered all his tardy romance for some miserable banknotes.

Old Grannis regrets trading his chance at love for money.

_Reflects his sorrow over selling his binding apparatus._

> After all these years they were together; they understood each other.

After many years, Old Grannis and Miss Baker finally unite and comprehend each other's feelings.

_Describes the resolution of their long-standing romantic tension._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/mcteague_se/chapters/xvii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/mcteague_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/mcteague_se/chapters