The Child of the Cavern · Chapter
XIII: On the Revolving Ladder explained
Harry Ford expresses his scruples about marrying Nell until she has experienced the world above the mine.
What happens
Harry Ford expresses his scruples about marrying Nell until she has experienced the world above the mine. Jack Ryan teases him about his feelings, and Harry explains that Nell must first see the surface world before making a lifelong commitment. Meanwhile, a mysterious figure lurks in the shadows of New Aberfoyle, opposing the union.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Sacrifice
Harry's decision to delay marriage until Nell has experienced the surface world demonstrates his selfless love and concern for her informed consent.
Mystery and the Supernatural
A mysterious figure stalks the shadows of New Aberfoyle, opposing the union of Harry and Nell with menacing gestures.
Family and Loyalty
Simon and Madge's deep attachment to Nell and their desire for her marriage to Harry highlight themes of familial loyalty and adoption.
Characters to notice
- Harry Ford
Expresses love for Nell but insists she must see the upper world before marriage; educates her in reading and writing.
- Nell
Makes rapid progress in learning under Harry's tutelage; is the subject of Harry's protective scruples.
- Jack Ryan
Teases Harry about his feelings for Nell and asks to join the planned excursion to the surface.
- Simon Ford
Becomes increasingly attached to Nell; plans a grand wedding celebration for Harry and Nell.
- Madge
Grows more attached to Nell as an adopted child.
- James Starr
Supports the marriage, believing Nell's secret knowledge will be revealed to her husband and ensure safety.
Key passages
“But for the present I have scruples of conscience as to asking her to make me a promise which would be irrevocable.”
Harry feels it would be wrong to ask Nell to commit to marriage before she has seen the world outside the mine.
Harry explains his ethical hesitation to Jack Ryan.
“Nell is at present blind; and before she marries me, I wish her to see what I am, and what the life really is to which she would bind herself.”
Harry compares Nell's ignorance of the surface world to blindness, insisting she must understand the life she is choosing.
Harry uses a metaphor to justify his decision to wait.
“She and he? Never! never!”
A mysterious figure mutters in fury, opposing the marriage of Harry and Nell.
The chapter ends with a hint of supernatural or hidden opposition.