The Well at the World’s End · Chapter
II: They Break Their Fast in the Wildwood explained
Ralph and the Lady of Abundance journey through the wildwood, pausing to rest and eat by a brook.
What happens
Ralph and the Lady of Abundance journey through the wildwood, pausing to rest and eat by a brook. The Lady explains she left Silverfax behind to mislead Roger, and they discuss their destination, Hampton under Scaur, rather than the Castle of Abundance. She promises to tell Ralph her story, correcting errors in the book he read.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Desire
Ralph and the Lady's intimate bond deepens through physical affection and shared vulnerability in the wild.
Quest and Adventure
The journey to Hampton under Scaur continues, with the Lady guiding Ralph through unknown woods.
Nature and the Supernatural
The Lady's knowledge of the woods is attributed to her upbringing, not sorcery, yet her connection to the natural world feels almost magical.
Characters to notice
- Ralph of Upmeads
Travels with the Lady, expresses longing for the Castle of Abundance, and shares a tender meal by the brook.
- The Lady of Abundance
Leads Ralph through the woods, reveals she left Silverfax to mislead Roger, and promises to tell her story.
- Roger
Mentioned as the one who might pursue them, but the Lady has taken steps to mislead him.
- Silverfax
The horse left behind by the Lady to mislead Roger, mentioned as having been whispered to.
Key passages
“I said a word in the ear of Silverfax or ever I departed, and now the good beast knows my mind, and will lead the fierce lord a little astray, but not too much, lest he follow us with his eager heart and be led by his own keen woodcraft.”
I whispered to Silverfax before we left, so he will mislead Roger just enough to delay him without making him suspicious.
The Lady explains her strategy to ensure their escape.
“Sooth to say, Knight, I am no weakling dame, who cannot move her limbs save in the dance, or to back the white palfrey and ride the meadows, goshawk on wrist; I am both well-knit and light-foot as the Wood-wife and Goddess of yore agone.”
I am not a delicate lady who only dances or rides; I am strong and nimble like the ancient woodland goddess.
The Lady asserts her physical capability and independence.
“It is a long while now since the beginning of the June day, and meseems I know thy lack, and the slaking of it lieth somewhat nearer than Hampton under Scaur, which we shall not reach these two days if we go afoot all the way.”
It's been a long day, and I think I know what you need—and it's closer than Hampton, which is two days away on foot.
The Lady senses Ralph's hunger and suggests a rest stop.