# XII: Return Engagement explained — Short Fiction

> Chapter companion for Short Fiction by Manly Wade Wellman.

## What happens

The chapter describes a period of calm and preparation before the opening of the play 'Ruthven'. Gib and Sigrid reconcile their past estrangement, confess their love, and decide to marry. Jake Switz is let in on their secret. The group rehearses, enjoys outdoor activities, and avoids the non-shapes by carrying flashlights at night. Varduk remains enigmatic, and Judge Pursuivant visits but never stays after dark. Publicity for the play builds, and the opening night approaches.

## Themes in this chapter

### The Power of Belief and Ritual

The characters' dedication to rehearsing and performing 'Ruthven' underscores the transformative power of theatrical ritual and belief in the play's significance.

### Transformation and Duality

Gib and Sigrid's personal transformation through reconciliation and the duality of their public roles versus private emotions are central to the chapter.

## Character check-ins

### Gib

Narrator and protagonist; reconciles with Sigrid and proposes marriage.

### Miss Holgar

Sigrid Holgar, the actress; rekindles her romance with Gib and agrees to marry him.

### Jake Switz

Publicist and friend; learns of Gib and Sigrid's engagement and helps with play promotion.

### Varduk

Mysterious producer of 'Ruthven'; observes the couple and quotes Byron.

### Keith Pursuivant

Visits the group but leaves before dark; defends the authenticity of the play in the press.

### Elmo Davidson

Mentioned as reporting that the house is a sellout.

## Key lines

> I loved you once, and in spite of the fact that we quarreled and separated, I've never stopped. I love you right this instant—

Gib confesses his enduring love for Sigrid, despite their past breakup.

_This moment marks the emotional climax of their reconciliation._

> We'll have a garden and keep pigs—no, there's a show. And the show must go on.

Gib and Sigrid fantasize about running away together but acknowledge their commitment to the play.

_Highlights the tension between personal desires and professional obligations._

> With that romance breaking now, we would have every able-bodied man, woman and child east of the Mississippi trying to get into our show.

Jake Switz remarks that the publicity from their engagement would draw huge crowds.

_Shows Jake's focus on the commercial potential of their personal news._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_37_se/chapters/xii-return-engagement
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_37_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_37_se/chapters