The Virginian · Chapter
VII: Through Two Snows explained
The chapter opens with a letter from the Virginian to the narrator, describing his departure from Sunk Creek Ranch due to jealousy and unfair treatment by the foreman.
What happens
The chapter opens with a letter from the Virginian to the narrator, describing his departure from Sunk Creek Ranch due to jealousy and unfair treatment by the foreman. He plans to let Judge Henry realize his value through absence. The letter also mentions Steve's suspected involvement in cattle rustling, the unfinished Bear Creek schoolhouse, and a new teacher from Vermont. Later, the narrator joins the Virginian for a hunt, learning more about his reasons for leaving. The chapter concludes with Judge and Mrs. Henry discussing the Virginian's shrewdness and value, and the news that he has returned to Sunk Creek.
Themes in this chapter
Friendship and Betrayal
The Virginian's friendship with Steve ends due to Steve's suspected involvement in cattle rustling, highlighting the tension between loyalty and moral integrity.
Justice and Vigilantism
The chapter alludes to the growing problem of cattle rustling and the informal justice system of the West, as seen in the suspicion surrounding Steve.
Class and Democracy
The Virginian's strategic departure from Sunk Creek demonstrates his shrewdness and ability to navigate power dynamics with his employer, reflecting the fluid social hierarchy of the frontier.
Characters to notice
- The Virginian
Writes a letter to the narrator explaining his departure from Sunk Creek due to jealousy and unfair treatment; later returns after Judge Henry realizes his value.
- Judge Henry
Discusses the Virginian's shrewdness and value with Mrs. Henry; realizes the Virginian's departure was a strategic move to prove his worth.
- Mrs. Henry
Expresses admiration for the Virginian's appearance and character; jokes with Judge Henry about his plans.
- Steve
Mentioned as a former friend of the Virginian; suspected of cattle rustling, leading to the end of their friendship.
- Lin McLean
Mentioned as being present with the Virginian during a hunt in Yellowstone Park.
- Uncle Hewie
Mentioned in the Virginian's letter as having twins, with some teasing about their paternity.
Key passages
“Things do not please me here just now and I am going to settel it by vamosing.”
I am unhappy with the situation here, so I plan to leave and resolve it that way.
The Virginian explains his decision to leave Sunk Creek Ranch in his letter.
“When it dawned on me how cleverly he caused me to learn the value of his services by depriving me of them, I doubted whether it was safe to take him back.”
When I realized he made me appreciate his worth by leaving, I wondered if it was wise to rehire him.
Judge Henry reflects on the Virginian's strategic departure.