The Young Visiters · Chapter
A Gay Call explained
Bernard and Ethel visit the Earl of Clincham at the Crystal Palace, where they encounter a party of high society.
What happens
Bernard and Ethel visit the Earl of Clincham at the Crystal Palace, where they encounter a party of high society. Ethel is introduced to Lord Hyssops, who is revealed to be Mr. Salteena with a new title. Mr. Salteena confesses his love for Ethel and proposes, but she rejects him. The visit ends with Bernard and Ethel departing.
Themes in this chapter
Social Class and Aspiration
Mr. Salteena's acquisition of a title and Ethel's envy of high society highlight the characters' aspirations and the fluidity of social status.
Love and Marriage
Mr. Salteena's passionate proposal to Ethel and her rejection underscore the theme of unrequited love and the social pressures surrounding marriage.
The Absurdity of High Society
The chaotic party, the Earl's casual bestowal of a title, and the characters' affected manners satirize the frivolity of elite social circles.
Characters to notice
- Bernard Clark
Arranges the visit to the Earl of Clincham, shows jealousy towards Ethel, and wears Cambridge-inspired attire.
- Ethel Monticue
Excited for the visit, dresses in green muslin, converses with the Earl, and rejects Mr. Salteena's marriage proposal.
- Earl of Clincham
Hosts a lively party, introduces Ethel to Lord Hyssops, and is affable throughout.
- Edward Procurio
Seen walking in the passage, looking dark and mysterious, and directs Bernard to the Earl's compartments.
- Mr. Salteena
Now titled Lord Hyssops, he is staying with the Earl, confesses his love to Ethel, and proposes marriage but is rejected.
- Lady Gay Finchling
A brisk widow introduced by the Earl, tells witty stories, and unknowingly interrupts the proposal.
Key passages
“I tell you what Ethel said Bernard Clark about a week later we might go and pay a call on my pal the Earl of Clincham.”
Bernard suggests they visit his friend the Earl of Clincham.
Bernard initiates the social call that drives the chapter's action.
“This is agony cried Mr. Salteena clutching hold of a table my life will be sour grapes and ashes without you.”
Mr. Salteena dramatically declares his despair at the thought of life without Ethel.
Highlights the melodramatic tone of Mr. Salteena's proposal.
“Well half a loaf is better than no bread responded Mr. Salteena in a gloomy voice”
Mr. Salteena resigns himself to Ethel's friendship as better than nothing.
Shows his pragmatic acceptance after rejection.