Old John Mealy-Face

Name: Old John Mealy-Face
Author: Sabine Baring-Gould

The narrative centers on an eccentric character known for his frugality and peculiar humor, residing in a small village. Born in 1784, he had three marriages, with the last wife suffering from paralysis. His nickname, "Mealy-Face," stems from his obsessive penny-pinching, particularly regarding food for his wife, who resorted to baking secretly to stave off hunger. The protagonist's sharp wit is evident in his interactions, such as a humorous exchange with a clergyman about divine calling and wages. He also engages with travelers, showcasing his dry humor and local wisdom. A notable incident involves his prized pear tree, which becomes the target of theft. After enduring two years of fruit theft, he takes matters into his own hands, shooting a thief in the leg, leading to a court appearance where he displays a lack of remorse and a pragmatic attitude towards the consequences of his actions. The story also includes anecdotes that highlight the shrewdness of the local populace, such as a sexton who, upon believing a woman might not be dead, refuses to dig her up due to the financial implications. In a supernatural twist, the protagonist recounts an encounter with a mysterious boy on a white horse, adding an element of the uncanny to his otherwise mundane life. His third marriage is approached with humor, as he requests a discount for being a repeat customer. The narrative concludes with the protagonist's death at eighty-four, marking the end of a life characterized by thrift, humor, and a unique perspective on the world around him.

By Sabine Baring-Gould · First published 1895 · Genre: Biography, Humor, Fiction · 1,541 words

First lines

Old John M -- -- [22], a character in his way, and a celebrity in his very little circle, was born in the parish of Topcliffe, near Thirsk, on February 20th, 1784.

He was thrice married. His first and second wives I did not know; the third he married March 29th, 1838. She was afflicted with paralysis of her legs during a great part of her later life. She was a charming old woman -- religious, amiable, and a general favourite with her neighbours.

What this Textopian page supports

Old John Mealy-Face is listed on Textopian as a short story by Sabine Baring-Gould, dated 1895 CE.

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Work type: Short story
Author: Sabine Baring-Gould
Date: 1895 CE
Language: English
Genres: Biography, Humor, Fiction, Regional Literature, Social Commentary
Length: 1,541 words
Structure: 1 section, 39 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Biography — The narrative focuses on the life and character of Old John Mealy-Face, detailing his personal history and relationships.
Humor — The text contains dry humor and anecdotes that highlight the character's wit and the absurdity of certain situations.
Fiction — The story is a fictional account that blends real-life elements with imaginative storytelling.
Regional Literature — The setting and dialect reflect the Yorkshire region, contributing to the local color and cultural context.