# XVII: Richard Bringeth Tidings of Departing explained — The Well at the World’s End

> Chapter companion for The Well at the World’s End by William Morris.

## What happens

Richard informs Ralph that Clement Chapman's company will depart at noon, giving them only four hours together. Richard explains he cannot join Ralph due to his duty to Blaise and the looming threat of Walter the Black. Ralph finally recounts his tale of grief, and Richard interprets the Lady of the Dry Tree's actions as fay-like, suggesting she foresaw Ralph's quest for the Well at the World's End and the other woman. Richard's faith in the quest is renewed, and he provides Ralph with a horse and gear.

## Themes in this chapter

### Quest and Adventure

Ralph's journey to the Well at the World's End is reaffirmed as a central quest, with Richard's renewed belief in its reality.

### Sacrifice and Loss

Ralph grieves the loss of the Lady of Abundance, and Richard interprets her death as a kind sacrifice to ensure Ralph's future happiness.

## Character check-ins

### Richard the Red

Brings tidings of departure, shares his thoughts on Ralph's quest, and provides a horse and gear.

### Ralph of Upmeads

Prepares to depart, recounts his tale of grief to Richard, and struggles with his longing for the Lady.

### Clement Chapman

Arrives early with his company, ready to depart at noon; complicit in the lie about Ralph's destination.

### Blaise

Ralph's brother, whom Richard serves; Ralph intends to bid him farewell before departing.

### The Lady of Abundance

Recalled in Ralph's tale; Richard suggests she may have been part fay and foresaw Ralph's quest.

## Key lines

> Like honey and roses for sweetness

The Lady of the Dry Tree praised the other woman with great sweetness and affection.

_Ralph describes the manner of the Lady's praise._

> fristed is not forgotten, as saith the saw

A delay does not mean the matter is forgotten, as the proverb says.

_Richard warns that Walter the Black's threat remains despite his injury._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_well_at_the_world_s_end_se/chapters/xvii-richard-bringeth-tidings-of-departing
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_well_at_the_world_s_end_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_well_at_the_world_s_end_se/chapters