The Secret Garden · Chapter
XII: “Might I Have a Bit of Earth?” explained
Mary meets Dickon for the first time and is captivated by him.
What happens
Mary meets Dickon for the first time and is captivated by him. She learns that Mr. Craven has returned and wants to see her, thanks to Mrs. Sowerby's intervention. In a nervous interview, Mary asks for permission to play outdoors and have a bit of earth for a garden. Mr. Craven grants her wish, and Mary joyfully returns to the secret garden to find a note from Dickon promising to return.
Themes in this chapter
Healing Power of Nature
Mary's desire to play outdoors and have a garden is directly linked to her physical and emotional improvement. She feels stronger and happier when she is outside, and the secret garden becomes a source of hope and joy.
Friendship and Connection
Mary's meeting with Dickon marks the beginning of a deep friendship. She is immediately drawn to him, and his promise to return strengthens their bond. Additionally, Mrs. Sowerby's intervention on Mary's behalf shows the power of community and connection.
Characters to notice
- Mary Lennox
Mary is excited after meeting Dickon and nervous about her meeting with Mr. Craven. She bravely asks for permission to play outdoors and have a garden, and is overjoyed when he agrees.
- Dickon Sowerby
Mary meets Dickon for the first time and thinks he is beautiful. He leaves her a note with a picture of a bird on a nest and the message 'I will cum bak.'
- Martha Sowerby
Martha talks with Mary about Dickon, advises her to ask Ben Weatherstaff about a garden spot, and informs her that Mr. Craven has returned and wants to see her.
- Archibald Craven
Mr. Craven returns to Misselthwaite and, prompted by Mrs. Sowerby, agrees to see Mary. He grants her permission to play outdoors and have a garden, then plans to leave again for a long trip.
- Mrs. Medlock
Mrs. Medlock escorts Mary to Mr. Craven's study, wearing her best dress and a brooch with a photograph of her late husband.
Key passages
“I think—I think he's beautiful!”
Mary declares that she finds Dickon beautiful, despite Martha's surprise.
Mary's strong positive reaction to Dickon shows her growing capacity for admiration and connection.
“Might I have a bit of earth?”
Mary asks Mr. Craven for permission to have a small piece of land for gardening.
This request is a pivotal moment, symbolizing Mary's desire for independence and a place of her own.
“I will cum bak.”
Dickon leaves a note for Mary promising to return to the secret garden.
The note reassures Mary and deepens her trust in Dickon, reinforcing the theme of friendship.