The Virginian · Chapter
X: Where Fancy Was Bred explained
At the Swintons' barbecue and dance, the Virginian arrives and hears talk of Molly Wood's many suitors, including Lin McLean's failed attempt to kiss her.
What happens
At the Swintons' barbecue and dance, the Virginian arrives and hears talk of Molly Wood's many suitors, including Lin McLean's failed attempt to kiss her. The Virginian, having saved her from drowning earlier, feels a mix of pride and grievance. He cleans up and enters the dance, but Molly avoids him, pretending not to notice him, which deepens his intrigue.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Romance
The chapter explores the romantic dynamics between Molly Wood and her many suitors, including the Virginian's quiet rivalry and Lin McLean's rebuff.
Masculinity and Honor
The Virginian's pride and sense of injury over Molly's slight, as well as the men's competitive banter, reflect codes of masculine honor.
Characters to notice
- The Virginian
Arrives at the Swintons' barbecue, listens to talk about Molly Wood's suitors, feels pride and grievance over her, cleans up for the dance, and is noticed by Molly who avoids him.
- Molly Stark Wood
The schoolmarm is the subject of gossip about her many suitors; she dances with various married men and deliberately ignores the Virginian at the dance.
- Lin McLean
Tells the story of his failed attempt to kiss Molly Wood, which led to her calling him an 'exception'; he watches the dance gloomily with the Virginian.
- Trampas
Present at the barbecue, makes a snide comment about the Virginian's ranking among Molly's suitors.
- Honey Wiggin
Entertains the crowd with humorous stories about Molly Wood's suitors, including Bokay Baldy's failed gift of slippers.
- Uncle Hughey
Dances with Molly Wood, much to the Virginian's annoyance, despite having a wife and twins.
Key passages
““Well, boys,” said Wiggin, “I expect it will be Miss Schoolmarm says who’s number one tonight.””
Wiggin suggests that Molly Wood will decide who is the most important suitor.
Highlights the social competition for Molly's attention.
““Trample is what she has done on me tonight, and without notice.””
Lin McLean feels that Molly has treated him harshly and unexpectedly.
Shows Lin's frustration after his failed advance.
““She knowed me right away,” said he.”
The Virginian realizes that Molly recognized him immediately despite her pretense.
Indicates the Virginian's awareness of Molly's deliberate avoidance.