Contents
Chapter 22
Overview
Mabel probes Cess and Ness about why they are unmarried, prompting frank, feminist views that make Mabel feel included. Later, Daphne arrives in the rain, attempts to dink Mabel on a bike, and they crash harmlessly. Their shared laughter and jokes cement a real friendship as Daphne starts at St. Mary’s.
Summary
At breakfast, Mabel confronts local gossip by asking Cess and Ness why they remain unmarried. Cess delivers a blunt critique of marriage as benefiting men, while Ness adds that love and independence can exist outside it. Their stance and easy rapport make Mabel feel briefly accepted and at home.
Later, from her bedroom window, Mabel spots Daphne Barton bicycling in heavy rain. Daphne calls up for Mabel to come and play, an invitation Mabel has never received before. Despite her broken arm, Mabel hurries outside.
Daphne insists on giving Mabel a ride by “dinking” her on the tiny bike. After playful back-and-forth, they attempt it and topple, unhurt but laughing. Two more tries confirm the idea is impossible, and they retreat to the porch, giddy and soaked.
As they catch their breath, Daphne reveals she has started at St. Mary’s and calls the students “buttnuggets,” easing Mabel’s fear that Daphne pities her. Their shared humor escalates—Mabel’s laugh-snorts and Daphne’s “larts” (laugh-farts) trigger uncontrollable giggles.
The afternoon ends with both girls hysterical with laughter, the failed bike adventure transforming into a pivotal moment of connection. Mabel’s isolation eases as she and Daphne forge a genuine friendship.
Who Appears
- MabelNarrator; questions marriage norms, feels included with Cess and Ness, then bonds joyfully with Daphne.
- Daphne BartonArrives in the rain, tries to dink Mabel on a bike, jokes and laughs, starts at St. Mary’s.
- CessArticulates a sharp feminist critique of marriage, encouraging Mabel’s independence and belonging.
- NessOffers a gentler view on love and independence outside marriage; supports Mabel’s choices.