# XVI: “I Won’t!” Said Mary explained — The Secret Garden

> Chapter companion for The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett.

## What happens

Mary prioritizes her work in the secret garden with Dickon over visiting Colin, leading to a heated argument when Colin confronts her. Mary stands her ground, refusing to be bullied, and the conflict reveals both children's selfishness. The nurse observes the fight approvingly, and Mary later receives a thoughtful gift from Mr. Craven, softening her mood.

## Themes in this chapter

### Transformation and Growth

Mary's physical and emotional growth is evident as she becomes stronger and more assertive, while Colin's tantrum marks a step toward confronting his own selfishness.

### Friendship and Connection

Mary's deepening bond with Dickon contrasts with her conflict with Colin, emphasizing the importance of genuine connection over forced companionship.

### Childhood and Independence

Mary asserts her independence by choosing her own activities over Colin's demands, and the argument showcases the children's struggle for autonomy.

## Character check-ins

### Mary Lennox

Mary is absorbed in gardening with Dickon, growing stronger and happier. She defies Colin's demands, showing her stubborn and independent nature, but later feels warmth from Mr. Craven's gift.

### Colin Craven

Colin is frustrated and jealous of Mary's time with Dickon. He throws a tantrum, accuses Mary of selfishness, and threatens to send Dickon away, revealing his insecurity and fear of being alone.

### Dickon Sowerby

Dickon works alongside Mary in the garden, teaching her to use tools and sharing his bond with animals. He is portrayed as kind, skilled, and a positive influence on Mary.

### Martha Sowerby

Martha is anxious about Colin's reaction to Mary's absence and later shows curiosity about the gift box from Mr. Craven.

### Archibald Craven

Mr. Craven sends Mary a box of books, games, and a writing case, showing his thoughtful side and desire to connect with her.

## Key lines

> “Tell Colin that I can’t come and see him yet,” she said to Martha. “I’m very busy in the garden.”

Mary instructs Martha to inform Colin that she is too occupied with gardening to visit him.

_Mary prioritizes her garden work over Colin's company, setting the stage for their conflict._

> “If you send Dickon away, I’ll never come into this room again!” she retorted.

Mary threatens to permanently avoid Colin's room if he banishes Dickon.

_Mary's defiance shows her loyalty to Dickon and her refusal to be controlled._

> “He’s better than a common Rajah!” retorted Mary. “He’s a thousand times better!”

Mary insists that Dickon is far superior to any prince or ruler.

_Mary's passionate defense of Dickon highlights her admiration and the class contrast between Dickon and Colin._

> “I don’t believe it!” said Mary sourly. “You just say that to make people sorry. I believe you’re proud of it.”

Mary accuses Colin of exaggerating his illness to gain sympathy and attention.

_Mary's bluntness challenges Colin's self-pity and forces him to confront his behavior._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_secret_garden_se/chapters/xvi-i-won-t-said-mary
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_secret_garden_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_secret_garden_se/chapters