Robbery Under Arms · Chapter
XV explained
Jim and Dick visit George Storefield's prosperous farm, where they reunite with Gracey Storefield.
What happens
Jim and Dick visit George Storefield's prosperous farm, where they reunite with Gracey Storefield. The chapter explores romantic tensions, George's unrequited love for Aileen, Dick's conflicted feelings for Gracey, and Jim's despair over their criminal lives. The group plans a Christmas Eve gathering.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Sacrifice
Dick's renewed feelings for Gracey clash with his criminal entanglements; George's unrequited love for Aileen highlights the theme of sacrifice.
Fate and Free Will
Jim and Dick reflect on the uncertainty of their futures, feeling trapped by their choices yet aware of possible redemption.
Class and Social Mobility
George's rise from humble beginnings to prosperous farmer contrasts with the Marstons' descent into outlawry.
Characters to notice
- Jim Marston
Visits George's farm with Dick; lies about Melbourne trip to protect their secret; expresses despair about their outlaw life and fear of Kate Morrison's influence.
- Dick Marston
Narrates the visit; rekindles feelings for Gracey Storefield; reflects on his tangled life and lost opportunities.
- George Storefield
Now a prosperous farmer and teamster; returns from a long journey; still pines for Aileen Marston.
- Grace Storefield
Grown into a kind, honest young woman; shows affection for Dick; questions Jim about the Melbourne trip.
- Aileen Marston
Visits the Storefields with her brothers; remains distant from George despite his devotion.
- Mrs. Storefield
Old Mrs. Storefield questions the Marstons about their Melbourne travels.
Key passages
“I've half a mind to shoot myself, says Jim, and end it all. I would, too, only for mother and Aileen. What's the use of life that isn't life, but fear and misery, from one day's end to another, and we only just grown up?”
Jim expresses suicidal despair over their criminal existence, restrained only by concern for his mother and sister.
Highlights Jim's emotional turmoil and the psychological burden of their outlaw life.
“There never was a greater mistake in the world, I believe, than for a man to let a woman know how much he cares for her.”
Dick reflects that showing too much devotion can harm a man's romantic prospects.
Dick's cynical observation about courtship, based on George's failed approach to Aileen.