When Charles the First Was King · Chapter
Of My First Meeting with Rose Lisle explained
On a spring afternoon in 1631, young Will Dale encounters the cowherd Jacob Trusty, then ventures into the woods to climb an elm tree for a stormcock's nest.
What happens
On a spring afternoon in 1631, young Will Dale encounters the cowherd Jacob Trusty, then ventures into the woods to climb an elm tree for a stormcock's nest. He falls and is discovered by a little girl named Rose Lisle, who introduces herself and mentions she will soon leave for London. Will feels a pang of regret at the thought of her departure.
Themes in this chapter
Rural Life and Nature
The chapter vividly describes the farmstead, the woods along the River Went, the stormcock's nest, and the seasonal signs of spring such as primroses and newborn lambs.
Family and Heritage
Will's conversation with Jacob Trusty emphasizes the Dale family lineage and the importance of tradition, as Jacob recalls Will's grandfather and the family's long tenure at Dale's Field.
Characters to notice
- Will Dale
The narrator, a young boy living at Dale's Field, who climbs an elm tree for a stormcock's nest and falls, meeting Rose Lisle.
- Jacob Trusty
The family cowherd, a tall, stooped man with a red nose and cheeks, who talks with Will about the farm and ale.
- Rose Lisle
A little girl from near London who finds Will after his fall and tells him her name and that she will soon leave.
Key passages
“What is your name? said the little maid presently. William Dale; and my father's name is William Dale, too, and we live at Dale's Field, said I. What is yours? Mine is Rose Lisle.”
The girl asked Will his name, and he replied that he was William Dale, son of William Dale, from Dale's Field. She then told him her name was Rose Lisle.
This is the first exchange between Will and Rose, marking their initial meeting.
“From a long way off—near London. Father brought me on his horse to Wentbridge two days since, and in a day or two he will come and take me away again.”
Rose explained that she came from near London, having arrived at Wentbridge two days earlier with her father, and that she would be leaving again soon.
Rose reveals her temporary presence in the area, which stirs regret in Will.