When Charles the First Was King · Chapter
Of the Departure of Captain Trevor explained
Will Dale returns home to Dale's Field after his brief but eventful journey, finding everything unchanged except for the recovering Captain Trevor.
What happens
Will Dale returns home to Dale's Field after his brief but eventful journey, finding everything unchanged except for the recovering Captain Trevor. The captain, nursed by Will's mother, Lucy, and Rose, has grown close to the two young women, causing Ben Tuckett to feel jealous and insecure about his own appearance. Will reassures Ben, confident in Rose's love. Captain Trevor, however, reveals to Will that he has fallen in love with one of the maidens and decides to leave, feeling it is improper to stay.
Themes in this chapter
Love and Courtship
Ben's jealousy over Lucy's attention to Captain Trevor and Will's confidence in Rose's love highlight the theme of romantic relationships and trust.
Rural Life and Nature
The setting of Dale's Field, the harvest, and the orchard apple-trees emphasize the pastoral and agricultural backdrop of the story.
Civil War and Duty
Captain Trevor's discussion of the King's defeat and his impatience to return to service reflect the ongoing conflict and sense of duty.
Characters to notice
- Will Dale
Returns home and recounts his adventures; reassures Ben Tuckett about his relationship with Rose.
- Ben Tuckett
Expresses jealousy and insecurity over Captain Trevor's attention to Lucy.
- Rose Lisle
Nurses Captain Trevor and spends time with him in the orchard; reassures Will of her love.
- Lucy
Helps nurse Captain Trevor and is the object of Ben's jealousy.
- Captain Ready
Recovering from his wound, he enjoys the company of Rose and Lucy, and eventually decides to leave because he has fallen in love with one of them.
- Jacob Trusty
Greets Will upon his return and shares local news.
Key passages
“I killed one or two poor fellows, Jacob," I said, sighing at the thought of the dead men's faces. "God be praised!" said Jacob. "The King hath the less enemies.”
Will admits to killing enemy soldiers, and Jacob Trusty rejoices that the King's enemies are fewer.
Shows the contrast between Will's regret and Jacob's patriotic fervor.
“It is you that I love, my dear, and you are enough.”
Rose tells Will that her love for him is complete and not dependent on any accomplishments.
Reinforces the strength and faithfulness of Will and Rose's relationship.
“Master Dale," said he, looking me frankly and honestly in the face, "why should I not tell you all that is in my mind?”
Captain Trevor decides to be honest with Will about his feelings.
Sets up the captain's confession and his decision to leave.