The Cream of the Jest · Chapter
XXXV: Treats of Witches, Mixed Drinks, and the Weather explained
The narrator recalls a typical late-afternoon visit from the Kennastons, where conversation drifts from mundane domestic concerns—carpets, roads, weather, servants—to a discussion of witchcraft and the Sabbat, prompted by Kennaston's curios
What happens
The narrator recalls a typical late-afternoon visit from the Kennastons, where conversation drifts from mundane domestic concerns—carpets, roads, weather, servants—to a discussion of witchcraft and the Sabbat, prompted by Kennaston's curiosity. The narrator, Dick Harrowby, shares his knowledge of occult traditions, but the talk soon returns to ordinary topics, leaving Moira to wonder about Mrs. Kennaston's vanity and Kennaston's apparent dullness.
Themes in this chapter
Disillusionment and Cynicism
The mundane, trivial nature of the conversation contrasts with Kennaston's earlier mystical pursuits, highlighting a sense of disillusionment with everyday life.
The Power of Storytelling
The discussion of witchcraft and the Sabbat reveals how folklore and superstition persist, and how stories shape understanding of the occult.
Characters to notice
- Felix Kennaston
Visits with his wife; shows sudden interest in witchcraft and the Sabbat, but otherwise seems withdrawn and uncommunicative.
- Mrs. Kennaston
Engages in small talk about household chores and travel plans; later criticized by Moira for her use of makeup.
- Dick Harrowby
The narrator and host; shares his knowledge of witchcraft and the Sabbat, revealing his expertise in occult lore.
- Moira
The narrator's wife; participates in the conversation, mixes drinks, and privately questions Kennaston's character.
Key passages
“We were speaking about such things the other day, you remember? I have been thinking—You see, everyone tells me that, apart from being a master soapboiler, Mr. Harrowby, you are by way of being an authority on witchcraft and similar murky accomplishments?”
Kennaston recalls a previous conversation and asks Harrowby about his expertise in witchcraft.
Kennaston's interest in the occult is rekindled during a social call.
“Science now looks with new respect on folklore—”
Harrowby argues that modern science is beginning to take folklore seriously.
Harrowby defends the study of occult traditions as having legitimate roots.
“Do you suppose it is because he has a swelled head over his little old book, or is he just naturally stupid?”
Moira wonders whether Kennaston's quietness stems from pride in his book or from innate dullness.
Moira's private judgment reflects the chapter's theme of mundane social observation.