# I: Sounds from a Distant "C" explained — Wired Love

> Chapter companion for Wired Love by Ella Cheever Thayer.

## What happens

Nathalie Rogers, a telegraph operator at office B m, is interrupted while reading when she receives a call from office X n. She struggles to keep up with the fast sender, repeatedly asking for repeats, and is further annoyed by a nosy customer at her window. After a series of mishaps including an ink spill and a misheard message ("hearse" instead of "horse"), she and the operator at X n, who signs as "C," reconcile with polite banter, ending with Nattie describing her dreary office.

## Themes in this chapter

### Technology and Romance

The telegraph wire serves as a medium for initial connection and flirtatious banter between Nattie and C, blending technology with budding romantic interest.

### Miscommunication and Misunderstanding

Nattie's mishearing 'horse' as 'hearse' and the resulting confusion highlight the theme of miscommunication in telegraphic exchanges.

## Character check-ins

### Nathalie Rogers

The protagonist and telegraph operator at office B m; she is impatient, proud of her skills, and easily flustered by interruptions and the fast sender at X n.

### Mr. C.

The operator at X n who signs as 'C'; initially cross and sarcastic, but becomes friendly after Nattie's 'hearse' mistake, showing a playful side.

### Betsey Kling

The owner of the inquisitive nose who repeatedly interrupts Nattie with questions about telegraphy, causing Nattie to spill ink and become frustrated.

## Key lines

> I am happy to be able to return the compliment implied!

C sarcastically acknowledges Nattie's sharp retort, matching her tone.

_Shows the initial tension and quick wit between the two operators._

> I suppose I never shall hear the last of that hearse! But at all events it took the surliness out of you.

Nattie jokes that her mistake at least improved C's mood.

_Marks the turning point from conflict to camaraderie._

> It shall be my sole aim hereafter

C promises to prove his sweet disposition to Nattie.

_Indicates the beginning of a flirtatious dynamic._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/wired_love_se/chapters/i-sounds-from-a-distant-c
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/wired_love_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/wired_love_se/chapters