The Enchanted April · Chapter
XV explained
Mr.
What happens
Mr. Wilkins's arrival at San Salvatore leads to unexpected bonds with Mrs. Fisher and Lady Caroline after a bathing accident, elevating him in their esteem. His pleasant demeanor transforms the group's dynamics, prompting Lotty to delay confessing her financial deception, but when she finally does, he responds with surprising grace, embracing the holiday's restorative spirit.
Themes in this chapter
Social Class and Money
Mr. Wilkins's professional background and his handling of the housekeeping bills highlight class and financial dynamics among the group.
Escape and Renewal
The San Salvatore spell transforms Mr. Wilkins's behavior, allowing him to forgive Lotty's deceptions and embrace the holiday's restorative power.
Characters to notice
- Mrs. Wilkins
Observes Mellersh's transformation with delight, delays confession about the nest-egg, and feels proud of his adaptability.
- Mr. Wilkins
Wins over Mrs. Fisher and Lady Caroline after the bath incident, enjoys the social atmosphere, and forgives Lotty's fibs.
- Mrs. Fisher
Develops a secret understanding with Mr. Wilkins, values his companionship, and abandons the idea of sending for Kate Lumley.
- Scrap
Feels indulgent toward Mr. Wilkins after seeing him in a towel, and responds to his apology with a brief note.
- Mrs. Arbuthnot
Acts as a dignified hostess, is perceived as retiring by Mr. Wilkins, and blushes during their brief encounter.
Key passages
“A Collins,” said Mr. Wilkins, who knew what was necessary in literature. “I prefer the name Collins for such a letter to either that of Board and Lodging or Bread and Butter. Let us call it a Collins.””
Mr. Wilkins suggests calling a thank-you letter a 'Collins' rather than a 'Board and Lodging' or 'Bread and Butter' letter.
Demonstrates Mr. Wilkins's knowledge of social etiquette and literary terminology.
“He could not be to them as other men. He could not be to them as he would have been if they had met him in his clothes. There was a sense of broken ice; they felt at once intimate and indulgent; almost they felt to him as nurses do—as those feel who have assisted either patients or young children at their baths. They were acquainted with Mr. Wilkins’s legs.”
The accidental exposure of Mr. Wilkins's legs creates a feeling of intimacy and indulgence in Mrs. Fisher and Lady Caroline, as if they had nursed him.
Highlights the comedic and bonding effect of the bath incident on the characters' relationships.
“What can be more beneficial than such a holiday?””
Mr. Wilkins rhetorically asks what could be more beneficial than this holiday, accepting Lotty's confession without anger.
Shows Mr. Wilkins's transformation and embrace of the holiday's healing atmosphere.