# Chapter XVII explained — The Small Bachelor

> Chapter companion for The Small Bachelor by P. G. Wodehouse.

## What happens

George Finch, now a married man, reflects on his new life with May Stubbs and the changes in his social circle. He encounters various characters from his past, including Hamilton Beamish, who is still pining for Madame Eulalie, and the Waddingtons, who are dealing with the aftermath of the necklace theft. The chapter explores themes of love, marriage, and the shifting dynamics of social status.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love and Marriage

George and May's marriage is contrasted with the failed engagement to Molly, exploring the complexities of love and social obligation.

### Social Class and Status

The Waddingtons' fall from grace and George's rise in status highlight the fluidity of social class.

## Character check-ins

### George Finch

Newly married to May Stubbs, reflecting on his changed circumstances.

### May Stubbs

Now married to George Finch, adjusting to her new role.

### Hamilton Beamish

Still obsessed with Madame Eulalie, providing comic relief.

### Sigsbee H. Waddington

Dealing with the fallout from the attempted necklace theft.

### Molly Waddington

Engaged to George Finch, but now facing the consequences of her family's actions.

## Key lines

> George Finch, now a married man, reflected on the strange turns his life had taken.

George Finch, now married, thought about the unexpected changes in his life.

_Opening reflection on George's new marital status._

> Hamilton Beamish was still mooning over Madame Eulalie, much to everyone's amusement.

Hamilton Beamish continued to pine for Madame Eulalie, which everyone found funny.

_Hamilton's ongoing infatuation provides comic relief._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_small_bachelor_se/chapters/xvii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_small_bachelor_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_small_bachelor_se/chapters