The Coming of Bill · Chapter
Wherein Opposites Agree explained
Bailey Bannister confronts his aunt, Lora Delane Porter, about his sister Ruth's intention to marry Kirk Winfield.
What happens
Bailey Bannister confronts his aunt, Lora Delane Porter, about his sister Ruth's intention to marry Kirk Winfield. Mrs. Porter defends the match on eugenic grounds, infuriating Bailey, who storms off to thrash Kirk. Meanwhile, Kirk spars with Steve Dingle, who recounts a comical encounter with a forgetful young man. Bailey arrives at the studio, and Mrs. Porter follows to advocate for the marriage.
Themes in this chapter
Eugenics and Heredity
Mrs. Porter advocates for the marriage based on Kirk's physical perfection and eugenic principles, dismissing Bailey's social objections.
Class and Bohemianism
Bailey's outrage at Ruth marrying a 'nobody' contrasts with the bohemian world of Kirk's studio and Mrs. Porter's intellectualism.
Individualism vs. Interference
Bailey attempts to control Ruth's marriage, while Mrs. Porter and Ruth assert their independence.
Characters to notice
- Bailey Bannister
Confronts Mrs. Porter about Ruth's engagement, then goes to thrash Kirk.
- Mrs. Lora Delane Porter
Defends the marriage on eugenic grounds; writes at her desk before engaging Bailey.
- Ruth Bannister
Appears briefly, radiant and confirming her engagement to Kirk.
- Kirk Winfield
Sparring with Steve Dingle; unaware of Bailey's impending visit.
- Steve Dingle
Sparring partner and friend; recounts a story about a forgetful young man.
- George Pennicut
Opens the studio door for Bailey, relieved it is not Mrs. Porter.
Key passages
“I have ceased to expect intelligence in man, and I am grateful for the smallest grain.”
I no longer anticipate intelligence from men and appreciate even the tiniest bit.
Mrs. Porter expresses her low opinion of male intellect.
“If you have ever studied even so elementary a subject as the colour heredity of the Andalusian fowl—”
If you have ever looked into something as basic as the color genetics of Andalusian chickens—
Mrs. Porter uses poultry breeding to illustrate eugenic principles.
“I shall now call upon this Mr. Winfield and thrash him.”
I will now go visit Mr. Winfield and beat him.
Bailey threatens physical violence against Kirk.
“It would sure get my goat the worst way to have the old man gum the game for them.”
It would really upset me if the old man ruined their plans.
Steve Dingle expresses his desire for Kirk and Ruth's happiness.