Short Fiction · Chapter
I: Mary Tomkins explained
John Thomas, a clerk in the post-office, is beloved by all but neglects his work, keeping a novel and brandy in his desk.
What happens
John Thomas, a clerk in the post-office, is beloved by all but neglects his work, keeping a novel and brandy in his desk. He lives in Finsbury Square and falls in love with Mary Tomkins, the niece of his landlady Mrs. Johnson. Mary is described as angelic in appearance and manner, but she repeatedly refuses John's advances, leading to his frustrated demand for an explanation.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Marriage
John Thomas's romantic pursuit of Mary Tomkins and her repeated refusals highlight the tensions in courtship.
Characters to notice
- John Smith
John Thomas, a clerk in the post-office, is in love with Mary Tomkins and frustrated by her refusals.
- Mary Crofts
Mary Tomkins, the niece of Mrs. Johnson, is the object of John Thomas's affection and repeatedly refuses him.
Key passages
“I Mary Tomkins John Thomas was a clerk in the post-office, beloved by all who knew him; but he never did any work, usually had a novel and a bottle of brandy in his desk, and broke the heart of the Junior Assistant Secretary in whose Department he had been placed.”
John Thomas, a post-office clerk, was well-liked but lazy, keeping a novel and brandy in his desk and causing distress to his supervisor.
Introduces John Thomas's character and work habits.
“If ever there was an angel upon earth, it was Mary Tomkins. She had long eyes and a short nose, a little mouth and a big chin, silken hair and a satin complexion, a high forehead and a small waist; but her manner was more than her appearance, and she was everything her aunt could wish her.”
Mary Tomkins is described as angelic, with distinctive features and a manner that surpasses her looks, pleasing her aunt greatly.
Describes Mary Tomkins's appearance and virtuous character.
““Never, Johnny,” she said to her love, as he sat with his arm round her waist, “never, never, never, never.” “Why the deuce won’t you, then?” said John Thomas.”
Mary repeatedly refuses John's advances, prompting his frustrated question about her reasons.
Highlights the central conflict of the chapter.