# III: Squire Robinson explained — Short Fiction

> Chapter companion for Short Fiction by Anthony Trollope.

## What happens

Squire Robinson and his daughter Jemima visit Mary Tomkins, urging her to choose between her two suitors, Johnny Thomas and the parson. Despite the squire's practical advice, Mary remains steadfast in her refusal to commit to either, insisting 'Never, never, never, never!'

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Marriage

Mary's dilemma between two suitors highlights the tension between romantic inclination and societal expectations of marriage.

### Family Duty and Sacrifice

Squire Robinson's advice to Mary emphasizes the duty to secure a stable future through marriage, reflecting family obligations.

## Character check-ins

### Mary Crofts

Mary Tomkins is the heart-laden girl being counseled by Squire Robinson to choose a suitor.

### John Smith

Johnny Thomas is one of Mary's suitors, described as a sprightly fellow.

## Key lines

> Thou robbest me almost of my patience,' said the squire, angrily. 'Thou canst not have both. Take one and leave the other.'

The squire, losing his temper, insists that Mary must choose one suitor and cannot keep both.

_Squire Robinson's frustration underscores the central conflict of the chapter._

> But she answered him only as she had ever answered, 'Never, never, never, never!'

Mary's repeated refusal to choose either suitor shows her unwavering resolve.

_Mary's emphatic rejection highlights her stubbornness or perhaps her hidden feelings._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_4_se/chapters/volume-ii-iii-squire-robinson
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_4_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_4_se/chapters