The Coming of Bill · Chapter
I: Empty-Handed explained
Kirk Winfield returns to New York after a failed mining venture in South America, feeling like a failure as an artist and burdened by the death of his friend Hank Jardine.
What happens
Kirk Winfield returns to New York after a failed mining venture in South America, feeling like a failure as an artist and burdened by the death of his friend Hank Jardine. He is met by his wife Ruth, who reveals that she has become wealthy during his absence, alleviating their financial worries.
Themes in this chapter
Wealth and Corruption
Ruth's unexpected wealth contrasts with Kirk's failure, raising questions about the moral and emotional costs of money.
Marriage and Companionship
Kirk and Ruth's reunion highlights both their emotional bond and the gaps in understanding between them.
Parenthood and Child Rearing
Ruth's adoption of Aunt Lora's germ-conscious approach reflects changing attitudes toward child health and safety.
Characters to notice
- Kirk Winfield
Returns from South America empty-handed, grieving Hank's death, and feeling like a failed artist.
- Ruth Bannister
Meets Kirk at the dock, reveals she has become wealthy, and has adopted Aunt Lora's views on germs.
- Hank Jardine
Died of fever while returning from the mine; his death deeply affects Kirk.
- Steve Dingle
Mentioned by Kirk as someone he plans to spar with; Ruth says he is 'splendid.'
- William Bannister Winfield
Kirk's son, referred to as 'Bill'; was seriously ill with fever during Kirk's absence.
- Aunt Lora
Ruth has come around to her way of thinking about germs and helped nurse Bill during his illness.
Key passages
“He had set out to bring back wealth and comfort to her, and he was returning empty-handed.”
He had left to make money for his family, but came back with nothing.
Kirk's sense of failure is established early in the chapter.
“The skyline which daunts the emigrant as he comes up the bay to his new home struck fear into Kirk’s heart.”
The New York skyline, usually a symbol of hope, now terrified him like it does a newcomer.
Kirk feels alienated and intimidated by the city upon his return.
“He had the sensation, as he thought of Hank, of knowing himself for the first time.”
Reflecting on Hank's death gave Kirk a new, clearer understanding of himself.
Hank's death triggers a moment of self-awareness and resolve in Kirk.
“A flame of happiness blazed up in his mind, blotting out in an instant the forebodings which had lurked there like evil creatures in a dark vault.”
Seeing Ruth instantly dispelled all his worries and fears.
Ruth's presence brings Kirk temporary relief from his anxieties.
“I was so afraid that you would come back bulging with a fortune that would make my little one look like nothing. But you haven't, you haven't, and it's just splendid.”
I was worried you'd return rich and make my wealth seem small, but you didn't, and I'm thrilled.
Ruth reveals her newfound wealth and her relief that Kirk's failure doesn't overshadow it.
