Short Fiction · Chapter
Out of School explained
James Datchett, an assistant-master at Harrow House, receives an acceptance for a short story and, in a moment of elation, kisses housemaid Violet.
What happens
James Datchett, an assistant-master at Harrow House, receives an acceptance for a short story and, in a moment of elation, kisses housemaid Violet. The act is witnessed by Adolf, a Swiss servant who blackmails James into teaching him English and running errands. Meanwhile, Mr. Blatherwick, the school's proprietor, broods over his brother-in-law Bertie Baxter's borrowing habits, only to receive a letter containing a cheque and a recommendation that sends three new pupils his way. In his gratitude, Mr. Blatherwick kisses Violet over the coffee tray, just as James walks in, creating an awkward silence.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Secrets
James's secret kiss with Violet is witnessed by Adolf, leading to blackmail; Mr. Blatherwick's own kiss creates an awkward secret between him and James.
Comedy and Misunderstanding
The blackmail scenario and the coincidental kiss by Mr. Blatherwick are played for comedic effect, with misunderstandings driving the plot.
Money and Financial Struggle
James's low salary and reliance on writing income, Adolf's pursuit of tips, and Mr. Blatherwick's financial worries over his brother-in-law highlight monetary concerns.
Characters to notice
- James Datchett
An assistant-master at Harrow House who writes stories in his spare time; he kisses Violet and is subsequently blackmailed by Adolf.
- Adolf
A Swiss servant at Harrow House who blackmails James after witnessing the kiss, demanding language lessons and errand tips.
- Mr. Blatherwick
The proprietor of Harrow House; he broods over his brother-in-law's borrowing but is elated by a letter that brings new pupils, leading him to kiss Violet.
- Violet
A housemaid at Harrow House who is kissed by both James and Mr. Blatherwick; she remains unmoved by the incidents.
Key passages
“has a story rejected he should send that story to another editor, but that when he has one accepted he should send another story to that editor.”
James follows the advice that a rejected story should be submitted elsewhere, while an accepted one should be followed by another submission to the same editor.
James's strategy for managing his writing submissions.
“Anysing vrom dze fillage, sare?”
Adolf asks if James needs anything from the village, a pretext for errands that yield tips.
Adolf's recurring question as part of his blackmail scheme.
“In dze garten zis morning, I did zee you giss Violed. Zo!”
Adolf reveals he saw James kissing Violet in the garden and uses this as leverage.
The blackmail threat that drives the chapter's tension.