# In Pendleton Woods explained — Pollyanna

> Chapter companion for Pollyanna by Eleanor H. Porter.

## What happens

Pollyanna, seeking solace after a disappointing day, walks through Pendleton Woods. She encounters John Pendleton's dog, who leads her to the injured man lying at the foot of a ledge with a broken leg. Following his instructions, she enters his mysterious house to telephone Dr. Chilton, then returns to comfort him until help arrives.

## Themes in this chapter

### Suffering and Resilience

John Pendleton endures the pain of a broken leg with grim humor, while Pollyanna shows resilience by staying calm and helping despite her fear of the mysterious house.

### Transformation Through Connection

Pollyanna's willingness to help and her insight that John Pendleton is 'only cross outside' deepens their bond, hinting at his potential transformation through her kindness.

## Character check-ins

### Pollyanna Whittier

Pollyanna goes to Pendleton Woods for comfort, discovers John Pendleton injured, bravely enters his house to call Dr. Chilton, and stays to comfort him.

### John Pendleton

John Pendleton is found lying at the foot of Little Eagle Ledge with a broken leg. He gives Pollyanna instructions to call Dr. Chilton and later allows her to hold his head.

### Dr. Thomas Chilton

Dr. Chilton receives Pollyanna's phone call and arrives with a stretcher and men to tend to John Pendleton.

## Key lines

> I don't have to get home till half-past five, anyway; and it'll be so much nicer to go around by the way of the woods, even if I do have to climb to get there.

Pollyanna decides to take the longer, more scenic route through Pendleton Woods since she doesn't need to be home until later.

_Shows Pollyanna's preference for nature and her optimistic outlook._

> But you're only cross outside — You arn't cross inside a bit!

Pollyanna tells John Pendleton that his gruff exterior hides a kind inner nature.

_Demonstrates Pollyanna's ability to see beyond surface behavior._

> I wanted to be with you.

Pollyanna explains that she returned to stay with John Pendleton instead of waiting for the doctor.

_Highlights Pollyanna's compassion and desire to comfort others._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/pollyanna_se/chapters/xiii-in-pendleton-woods
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/pollyanna_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/pollyanna_se/chapters