Little Women
Part 2, Chapter 43: Surprises
by Louisa May Alcott
Laurie and Amy return home with some surprising news. Professor Bhear, in town on business, pays a visit to Jo.
Laurie and Amy return home with some surprising news. Professor Bhear, in town on business, pays a visit to Jo.
A discussion of dreams and how they can affect the dreamer.
The robbery continues to bring kindness and sympathy to Silas' door. Godrey looks forward to seeing Nancy once again, but still worries that Dunstan will return to Raveloe.
Sir Percival tries to secure Laura's signature before his departure, but won't reveal the contents of the document. The Count steps in on her behalf, suggesting that he wait another day. The Countess behaves in a strangely friendly manner towards Marian, leading her to worry about the message she awaits.
Jane finds life at Thornfield pleasant and comfortable. Adèle proves to be exuberant and intelligent, though spoiled and at times a bit petulant. Nonetheless, Jane is frequently restless and collects her thoughts while pacing Thornfield’s top-story passageway. One evening a few months after her arrival at Thornfield, Jane is alone watching the moon rise when she perceives a horse approaching. It calls to her mind the story Bessie once told her of a spirit called a Gytrash, which disguises itself as a mule, dog, or horse to frighten “belated travellers.” Oddly enough, a dog then appears as well. Once she realizes that the horse has a rider, the uncanny moment ceases. Just after the horse passes her, it slips on a patch of ice, and its rider tumbles to the ground. Jane helps the man rise to his feet and introduces herself to him. She observes that he has a dark face, stern features, and a heavy brow. He is not quite middle-aged. Upon reentering Thornfield, Jane goes to Mrs. Fairfax’s room and sees the same dog—Pilot—resting on the rug. A servant answers Jane’s queries, explaining that the dog belongs to Mr. Rochester, who has just returned home with a sprained ankle, having fallen from his horse.
Mina and Lucy arrive at Whitby. Dr. Jack Seward journals about his lunatic client Renfield. Mina is concerned that she has not heard from Jonathan. Lucy is beginning to act strangely in her sleep.
Reception Speech. At Finsbury Chapel, Moorfields, England, May 12, 1846 & Dr Campbell's Reply.
Sally Carrol thinks that she wants a different life than the one she leads in the South, with a man who isn't like the boys she grew up with. Her engagement to Henry and her trip North show her what that different life would be like.
A minor incident at the barn dance has dire consequences for Fern Mullins. Fern, confident she will be fired, resigns and leaves town.
Walter meets Mrs. Catherick, and tries to discover the secret behind her relationship with Sir Percival.
Agnes Grey describes her new position and the family for whom she works.
"O! Nothing earthly save the ray"
Jehan Frollo discovers a strange scene in his brother's cell. Jehan's request for money is interrupted by the arrival of Maitre Jacques.
The crew of the Pequod encounters a herd of sperm whales, but finds itself hunted before it can launch the harpoon boats.
William travels to Belgium, where he discovers a new line of employment.
George gets updated on current affairs while Myra sleeps.
George's involvement with Tanis begins to take a toll on his health and reputation. George receives his first invitation into the Good Citizen's League.
William's connection with his pupil grows, but she suddenly disappears. He questions Mdlle. Reuter about Mdlle. Henri.
As another year at West Point commences, Henry comes to find that being a First Classman comes with added privilege and respect.
Two family patriarchs pass away without full reconciliation. Amelia's newfound wealth brings a new set of "friends".
There is a funeral for the deceased. Mina and Harker have a disturbing run-in with a mysterious man in London. Children of the town are attacked by the “Bloofer Lady.”
Nancy overhears a conversation between Monks and Fagin, prompting her to pay a visit to Mrs. Maylie.
Judge Jaffrey Pyncheon passes by the little store. Hepzibah is also visited by Uncle Venner who gives her advise on shopkeeping. At the end of the day, Phoebe arrives unaware that the letter she sent in advance never arrived. Hepzibah tells her she can only stay one night because she might disturb Clifford.
The prisoners are questioned and moved to a tactical position near the shore. Cora attempts to assist Hawkeye and his companions, but is caught and reprimanded.
Carol encounters Erik while walking with Hugh, and they discuss life in Gopher Prairie. Carol encourages Erik to pursue further education. Erik slowly earns the town's acceptance.