# XXV: The Wood-Wife Healeth and Tendeth the Black Squire explained — The Water of the Wondrous Isles

> Chapter companion for The Water of the Wondrous Isles by William Morris.

## What happens

The wood-wife Habundia heals Arthur the Black Squire in her cave, tending to his sleep and providing him with fresh raiment and a sword. When Arthur awakens and sees Birdalone's sapphire ring about his neck, he becomes distraught and pleads with Habundia to help him find the damsel he loves. She reveals that the ring's owner is a dear friend of hers and agrees to lead him to her, filling Arthur with hope.

## Themes in this chapter

### Nature and the Wild

The woodland setting and the wood-wife's role as a healer and mistress of the forest emphasize the theme of nature as a source of restoration and power.

### Love and Desire

Arthur's desperate plea to see the damsel he loves and his five years of torment highlight the consuming nature of love and desire.

## Character check-ins

### Habundia

Acts as a healer and leech, tending to Arthur's physical and emotional wounds; she reveals her power and knowledge of the woodland, and her friendship with Birdalone.

### Arthur the Black Squire

Healed from his fever and madness, he becomes calm and hopeful upon learning that Habundia will lead him to the damsel who owns the sapphire ring.

### Birdalone

Referenced through the sapphire ring that Arthur wears; Habundia acknowledges her as a dear friend and the ring's bearer.

## Key lines

> Nay, knight, nay; hast thou not slept enough? is there nought for thee to do?

Habundia gently rouses Arthur from his deep sleep, implying that he has rested sufficiently and has tasks ahead.

_Demonstrates Habundia's authoritative yet caring role as a healer._

> Crafty is my dear daughter! But that shall save me some words at least.

Habundia smiles to herself, recognizing Birdalone's ring and appreciating her cleverness in leaving it with Arthur.

_Reveals Habundia's connection to Birdalone and her approval of the ring's placement._

> O mother, if thou be mighty be merciful withal, and have pity on me!

Arthur beseeches Habundia, acknowledging her power and begging for her compassion.

_Highlights Arthur's desperation and his hope that Habundia can reunite him with his beloved._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xxv-the-wood-wife-healeth-and-tendeth-the-black-squire
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters