Will Not Take Place
The narrative revolves around the abrupt end of an engagement between Arthur Lingard and Daisy Trevannion, which leaves both parties and their families in turmoil. The story begins with Captain Murray reading about the broken engagement in the newspaper, prompting discussions about the couple's seemingly perfect match. However, the suddenness of the breakup raises questions and concerns among their acquaintances. Daisy is devastated by the news, unable to comprehend why Arthur has chosen to end their engagement. Her mother, Mrs. Trevannion, tries to console her, but the emotional turmoil is palpable. Mr. Trevannion, Daisy's father, is equally perplexed and frustrated, believing that Arthur must have a valid reason for his decision. He resolves to confront Arthur to seek clarity. Arthur, however, remains resolute in his decision to end the engagement, citing a sense of duty and an unexplainable burden that compels him to withdraw from Daisy's life. His demeanor is marked by a profound sadness and a sense of guilt, which he cannot articulate. Despite Mr. Trevannion's attempts to understand and persuade him, Arthur remains firm, stating that he cannot see Daisy again. Philip Keir, a close friend of both Arthur and the Trevannions, becomes involved in the situation. He is determined to uncover the truth behind Arthur's actions. Their conversations reveal Arthur's deep internal struggle, but he refuses to disclose the reason for his decision, insisting that it is for Daisy's own good. Philip's attempts to reason with Arthur are met with a wall of silence, leaving him frustrated and concerned. As time passes, Daisy attempts to move on, but the shadow of her lost engagement lingers. She eventually marries Philip, who has loved her quietly throughout their friendship. Their marriage brings her some happiness, yet the mystery of Arthur's departure remains unresolved. Years later, during a dinner party, Philip learns of a tragic story involving a young Englishman who dedicated his life to caring for lepers after contracting the disease himself. This man, it is revealed, had once been engaged to a woman he loved deeply but chose to end the relationship to protect her from the pain of his impending death. The story resonates with Daisy, leading her to believe it may be connected to Arthur. Ultimately, a letter from Arthur's sister confirms his death, suggesting that he had indeed sacrificed his happiness for Daisy's sake. The narrative concludes with Daisy reflecting on Arthur's heroism, recognizing the depth of his love and the tragedy of their lost future together. The story explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the complexities of human emotions, leaving readers with a poignant sense of unresolved longing and the impact of choices made in the name of love.
By Mary Louisa Molesworth · First published 1890 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Romance, Drama · 7,186 words
First lines
"Lingard,' 'Trevannion," murmured Captain Murray, as he ran his eye down the column of the morning paper specially devoted to so-called fashionable intelligence, "Lingard, Arthur Lingard; yes, I've met him; a very good fellow. And Trevannion; don't you know a Miss Trevannion, Bessie?"
Mrs. Murray glanced up from her teacups.
What this Textopian page supports
Will Not Take Place is listed on Textopian as a novella by Mary Louisa Molesworth, dated 1890 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novella
- Author: Mary Louisa Molesworth
- Date: 1890 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Romance, Drama, Victorian Literature, Psychological Fiction
- Length: 7,186 words
- Structure: 1 section, 150 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Will Not Take Place by Mary Louisa Molesworth
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Will Not Take Place?
- How does this novella by Mary Louisa Molesworth fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Literary Fiction — The book explores complex emotional themes, character development, and societal norms, characteristic of literary fiction.
- Romance — The central plot revolves around a broken engagement and the emotional turmoil of love, making romance a significant genre.
- Drama — The narrative is filled with intense emotional conflicts and character struggles, typical of dramatic literature.
- Victorian Literature — The writing style and themes reflect the Victorian era's focus on social issues and moral dilemmas.
Tags
Fantasy · Adventure · Children's Literature · Classic Novel · Mystery · Coming-of-Age · Friendship · Growing Up · Self-Discovery · Imagination · Magic Realism · Social Commentary