The Revolution in Tanner’s Lane · Chapter
XII: One Body and One Spirit explained
Zachariah and Mrs.
What happens
Zachariah and Mrs. Coleman quarrel over his meetings with Caillaud and Pauline. He insists on meeting at Caillaud's house, leading to a bitter argument. Later, Mrs. Coleman secretly follows Zachariah to Caillaud's and watches him and Pauline through the window. Major Maitland discovers her in the rain, escorts her home, and she falls ill.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Marriage
The bitter quarrel between Zachariah and Mrs. Coleman reveals deep marital discord and jealousy.
The Role of Women
Mrs. Coleman's isolation and lack of understanding of her husband's affairs highlight the limited domestic sphere of women.
Characters to notice
- Zachariah Coleman
Argues with his wife about meeting Caillaud and Pauline; later seen earnestly talking with Pauline at Caillaud's.
- Mrs. Coleman
Feels neglected and jealous; quarrels with Zachariah, then secretly watches him with Pauline, gets caught in the rain, and falls ill.
- Pauline
Present at Caillaud's house; engages in earnest conversation with Zachariah, observed by Mrs. Coleman.
- Mr. Caillaud
Hosts the meeting; briefly leaves the room during the conversation.
- Major Maitland
Arrives late to the meeting; discovers Mrs. Coleman outside in the rain and escorts her home.
Key passages
“It is a terrible moment when the first bitter quarrel takes place, and when hatred, even if it be hatred for the moment only first finds expression. That moment can never be recalled!”
The first serious fight between a couple is a turning point that can never be undone, and the harsh words spoken may echo for years.
Narrator reflects on the lasting impact of the quarrel between Zachariah and Mrs. Coleman.
“She forgot Zachariah, Caillaud, and Pauline. When they arrived she returned the cloak and thanked him. She dared not ask him upstairs and he made no offer to stay.”
During the walk home with the Major, Mrs. Coleman was distracted from her jealousy, but she felt too ashamed to invite him inside.
Mrs. Coleman's encounter with Major Maitland temporarily shifts her focus from her husband's meeting.