The Virginian · Chapter
V: Enter the Woman explained
Mr.
What happens
Mr. Taylor discusses the search for a schoolteacher for Bear Creek, sharing a letter from Miss Mary Stark Wood of Vermont. The Virginian is intrigued by her free and witty writing, and a seed of interest is planted in his heart. The narrator arrives at Sunk Creek Ranch, where the Virginian becomes more reserved, but a subsequent incident involving a personage helps bridge their friendship and leads to more stories about the schoolmarm.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Romance
The Virginian's fascination with Molly's letter hints at the beginning of romantic interest, described metaphorically as a seed of love.
Civilization vs. Wilderness
The contrast between Molly's cultured Eastern background and the rough frontier life of Bear Creek is highlighted through the discussion of her suitability as a teacher.
Characters to notice
- The Virginian
Shows interest in Molly Stark Wood's letter, musing over her words and quoting them to himself.
- Taylor
Serious family man concerned with hiring a proper schoolteacher for Bear Creek; shares Molly's letter.
- Molly Stark Wood
Introduced through her letter to Mrs. Balaam; her free and witty writing captivates the Virginian.
- Judge Henry
Welcomes the narrator to Sunk Creek Ranch along with his wife.
- Mrs. Henry
Welcomes the narrator to Sunk Creek Ranch.
Key passages
“Has any botanist set down what the seed of love is? Has it anywhere been set down in how many ways this seed may be sown? In what various vessels of gossamer it can float across wide spaces? Or upon what different soils it can fall, and live unknown, and bide its time for blooming?”
The narrator reflects on the mysterious beginnings of love, suggesting that the Virginian's interest in Molly's letter is the first, unnoticed planting of affection.
This poetic passage marks the moment the Virginian's feelings for Molly begin to grow.
“Your real spinster don't speak of her lot that easy.”
The Virginian observes that a truly resigned spinster would not write so cheerfully about her situation.
The Virginian shows his perceptiveness about Molly's character from her letter.