The Maid of Sker · Chapter
A Fine Old Gentleman explained
Davy reflects on his life as a ferryman, his interactions with Nanette and a farmer's daughter, and his growing reputation.
What happens
Davy reflects on his life as a ferryman, his interactions with Nanette and a farmer's daughter, and his growing reputation. He then encounters Sir Philip Bampfylde to warn him about Parson Chowne's son Stoyle, but Sir Philip dismisses the warning, defending Stoyle's character and holy office.
Themes in this chapter
Social Class and Identity
Davy's interactions with Sir Philip highlight class distinctions, as Davy navigates his role as a common ferryman while being treated with courtesy by the nobleman.
Morality and Hypocrisy
Sir Philip's defense of Stoyle Chowne despite warnings suggests a tension between moral reputation and actual behavior, questioning the hypocrisy of those in power.
Family and Orphanhood
Davy's fond memories of Bardie and his concern for Bunny reflect themes of orphanhood and surrogate family bonds.
Characters to notice
- Davy Llewellyn
Davy narrates his ferry work, his thoughts on women, and his visit to Sir Philip to warn him about Stoyle Chowne.
- Bardie
Davy recalls Bardie fondly while thinking of apples, remembering her term 'appledies' and her little teeth marks.
- Sir Philip Bampfylde
Sir Philip is encountered by Davy in his orchard; he is grieving but courteous, and dismisses Davy's warning about Stoyle Chowne.
- Master Stoyle Chowne
Stoyle is mentioned as the godson of Sir Philip, whom Davy warns is planning mischief; Sir Philip defends him.
- Parson Chowne
Parson Chowne is referenced as the father of Stoyle and as a source of Davy's fear and suspicion.
- Miss Isabel Carey
Davy receives his well-earned salary from Mistress Isabel Carey, who also arranged his meeting with Sir Philip.
Key passages
“I made up my mind to tempt Providence, or rather perhaps the most opposite Power, by holding on where I was, in spite of the Parson and all his devices.”
I decided to risk fate, or maybe the devil, by staying put despite the Parson's schemes.
Davy resolves to defy Parson Chowne's attempts to drive him away.
“Nothing better fits a man, for dealing with the womankind, than to be well up in fish.”
Knowing about fish is the best preparation for handling women.
Davy uses a fishing metaphor to describe his understanding of women.
“Suddenly a great explosion blew me out of my berth, and filled the whole of the cuddy with blaze and smoke.”
A loud explosion threw me from my bed and filled the cabin with fire and smoke.
Davy describes an attack on his boat, likely by Parson Chowne.
“I never can believe that he would ever do me injury. If I thought it, I should have to think amiss of almost everyone.”
I cannot believe he would harm me. If I did, I would have to suspect everyone.
Sir Philip refuses to believe Stoyle Chowne could be a threat.