Wired Love · Chapter
XIV: Quimby Accepts the Situation explained
Quimby, having accidentally proposed to Celeste in the dark, is in despair.
What happens
Quimby, having accidentally proposed to Celeste in the dark, is in despair. He seeks Nattie's true answer to his feelings, but she gently rejects him as a friend. Despite Cyn and Clem's advice to break the engagement, Quimby resigns himself to his fate, fearing a breach-of-promise suit and Celeste's father. The chapter ends with the announcement of Quimby and Celeste's engagement.
Themes in this chapter
Miscommunication and Misunderstanding
Quimby's accidental proposal to Celeste in the dark, thinking she was Nattie, drives the entire chapter's conflict.
Illusion vs. Reality in Relationships
Quimby's idealized love for Nattie contrasts with the harsh reality of his engagement to Celeste.
Gossip and Social Surveillance
The announcement of Quimby and Celeste's engagement surprises those not in the secret, highlighting social observation.
Characters to notice
- Quimby
In despair after accidentally proposing to Celeste; seeks Nattie's answer but is rejected; resigns to marry Celeste.
- Nathalie Rogers
Feels remorse for being the unwitting cause of Quimby's mistake; gently rejects his proposal, affirming only friendship.
- Cyn
Finds the situation farcical but offers practical advice; urges Quimby not to marry Celeste out of obligation.
- Clem
Accompanies Quimby as a witness; advises him to explain the mistake; shows irritation toward Nattie, calling her a flirt.
- Celeste Fishblate
The unintended recipient of Quimby's proposal; her engagement to Quimby is announced to the surprise of others.
Key passages
“It was not your fault! she was determined to have him in any case! Had it been you, as he supposed, you would of course have declined the proffered honor, and she would have caught him in the rebound!”
Cyn tells Nattie that Celeste was set on marrying Quimby regardless, and that Nattie is not to blame for the mix-up.
Cyn's pragmatic view absolves Nattie of responsibility.
“Then since you wish, I will tell you that as a friend I think very highly of you, and always shall. But, that is all.”
Nattie gently tells Quimby she only sees him as a friend, rejecting his romantic hopes.
Nattie's clear but kind rejection ends Quimby's last hope.
“Moral—never make love in the dark! Be sure that all—all the gas in the room is lighted if ever you propose!”
Cyn and Quimby joke that one should never propose in darkness, as it leads to mistaken identities.
A humorous takeaway from the chapter's central mishap.