The American Senator · Chapter
The Old Kennels explained
John Morton decides not to invite Reginald Morton to dinner after his grandmother's objections, instead inviting clergymen Mr.
What happens
John Morton decides not to invite Reginald Morton to dinner after his grandmother's objections, instead inviting clergymen Mr. Cooper and Mr. Mainwaring. The chapter then follows a fox hunt meet at the Old Kennels, where Senator Gotobed observes the proceedings with skepticism. The hunt is disrupted when poison is discovered, forcing the hounds to be secured in a barn.
Themes in this chapter
Rural Life and Community
The hunt meet at the Old Kennels illustrates the social rituals and communal activities of rural English gentry, including interactions between landowners, farmers, and huntsmen.
American vs. British Values
Senator Gotobed's critical observations of the hunt highlight the contrast between American pragmatism and British tradition, as he questions the efficiency and purpose of the sport.
Characters to notice
- John Morton
Debates inviting Reginald Morton but defers to his grandmother; hosts the hunt meet and introduces Senator Gotobed to Lord Rufford.
- Mrs. Morton
Objects to meeting Reginald Morton, citing past grievances; insists on inviting clergymen and having a fire in the church.
- Senator Gotobed
Observes the hunt with critical curiosity, questioning its efficiency and purpose; is present when poison is discovered.
- Lord Rufford
Greets Morton at the meet, offers a horse to the Senator, and persuades the Master to draw Bragton spinnies.
- Tony Tuppett
Huntsman who leads the hounds; comments on the lack of foxes at Bragton and secures the hounds in a barn after poison is found.
- Lawrence Twentyman
His farm, Chowton Farm, is passed by the hunt; his beer is available to riders.
Key passages
“I couldn’t have met him, John; I couldn’t indeed. I remember so well all that occurred when your poor infatuated old great-grandfather would have that woman into the house!”
Mrs. Morton refuses to meet Reginald Morton, recalling a past scandal involving her great-grandfather and a woman.
Highlights Mrs. Morton's deep-seated grudge and the family's social tensions.
“I don’t think they’d get a living in the States. Then they’re right to stay where they are.”
Senator Gotobed criticizes the farmers' lack of conversational skill, and Morton retorts that they are better off in England.
Illustrates the cultural clash between American and British perspectives on rural life.
“And these hundred gentlemen will go home quite satisfied with themselves? No;—they’ll go home quite dissatisfied.”
Senator Gotobed questions whether hunters would be content after a day without finding a fox, and Morton explains they would be disappointed.
Shows the Senator's skepticism about the efficiency and value of fox hunting.