The Black Arrow · Chapter
II: In the Fen explained
Dick Shelton rides through the fen at dawn, encounters a lost and frightened lad named John Matcham, and agrees to help him reach Holywood sanctuary.
What happens
Dick Shelton rides through the fen at dawn, encounters a lost and frightened lad named John Matcham, and agrees to help him reach Holywood sanctuary. They discuss marriage, Joan of Arc, and Sir Daniel's oppressive schemes, while fleeing Sir Daniel's pursuit.
Themes in this chapter
Identity and Disguise
Matcham's true identity is concealed; he is dressed in boy's clothes and calls himself John Matcham, while hints of his being Joanna Sedley emerge.
Love and Marriage
Dick and Matcham discuss the arranged marriage between Dick and Joanna Sedley, with both expressing reluctance and disdain.
Class and Social Hierarchy
Sir Daniel's power over his wards and his use of marriage for financial gain highlight the social hierarchy and oppression.
Characters to notice
- Dick Shelton
Rides through the fen, rescues Matcham, offers his horse and runs alongside, pledges to see him safe to Holywood.
- Matcham
Lost in the fen after losing his horse; seeks sanctuary at Holywood; reveals he is fleeing Sir Daniel's oppression and forced marriage.
- Sir Daniel Brackley
Mentioned as Matcham's oppressor who took him by force and plans a marriage between Dick and Joanna Sedley.
- Joanna Sedley
Mentioned as the intended bride for Dick in a match arranged by Sir Daniel; said to be bemoaning the match.
- Appleyard
Mentioned as an archer who ran from Joan of Arc.
Key passages
“Would ye mind a ducking? Blood of wound or dust of travel—that’s a man’s adornment.”
A little wetness or dirt is nothing; it's a sign of a real man.
Dick dismisses Matcham's concern about being muddy.
“I pray for her spirit.”
I am praying for the soul of Joan of Arc.
Matcham crosses himself and prays for Joan of Arc after Dick mentions her.
“An ye think I be no true man, get down upon the path, and whether at fists, backsword, or bow and arrow, I will prove my manhood on your body.”
If you doubt my masculinity, let's fight with fists, swords, or bows to settle it.
Dick challenges Matcham after being teased about his views on women.