Across the Walnuts and the Wine explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Social Class and Morality

  The dinner party showcases the social hierarchy and manners of the upper class, with characters discussing politics and entertainment while Mark Frettlby's past is hinted at through the mention of Rosanna.

• The Past and Its Consequences

  The mention of Rosanna Moore stirs strong emotion in Mark Frettlby, suggesting unresolved issues from the past that affect the present.

• Love and Sacrifice

  Brian and Madge share a romantic moment in the moonlight, discussing ghosts and the supernatural, reflecting their deepening relationship.

Characters to notice

• Brian Fitzgerald

  Attends Frettlby's dinner party in riding dress, sits next to Madge, and later walks with her in the moonlight. He is intrigued by the mention of Rosanna Moore.

• Madge Frettlby

  Hosts the dinner party with her father, plays Mendelssohn on the piano, and later walks with Brian in the garden, discussing a haunted house.

• Mark Frettlby

  The host, known for his excellent dinners. He shows strong emotion when the dancer Rosanna is mentioned and later takes old Valpy to his study.

• Felix Rolleston

  Engages in political talk, sings a song called 'Somewhere,' and plays Offenbach on the piano. He is bold after drinking champagne.

• Julia Featherweight

  Chats persistently with Mark Frettlby during dinner and later sings a ballad called 'Going Down the Hill.'

• Dr. Chinston

  Seated at the dinner table, he makes dry comments about politics and music, criticizing the mystical song 'Somewhere.'

• Mr. Valpy

  An old colonist who reminisces about the dancer Rosanna Moore, causing Mark Frettlby's discomfort. He is later taken to the study by Frettlby.

• Peterson

  Seated at the dinner table, he asks Felix about his political platform and later comments on the song 'Somewhere.'

Key passages

• “Moore, sweetest of bards, sings⁠— “Oh, there’s nothing half so sweet in life As love’s young dream.” But he made this assertion in his callow days, before he had learned the value of a good digestion.”

  The narrator suggests that while poets praise young love, a good dinner is actually more satisfying to a mature person.

  Opening reflection on the pleasures of dining versus romantic ideals.

• ““A hard heart and a good digestion will make any man happy.” So said Talleyrand, a cynic if you like, but a man who knew the temper of his day and generation.”

  The narrator quotes Talleyrand to emphasize that emotional toughness and physical comfort are keys to happiness.

  Cynical observation on happiness.

• ““She was as light as a fairy,” continued Valpy, with wicked chuckle. “What became of her?” asked Brian, abruptly. Mark Frettlby looked up suddenly, as Fitzgerald asked this question.”

  Old Valpy describes Rosanna as a graceful dancer, and Brian's direct question about her fate makes Mark Frettlby react sharply.

  Key moment revealing tension around Rosanna's past.