With the Chiddingfolds

A wealthy family, the Chiddingfolds, faces a crisis when their son, a promising young man, becomes embroiled in a scandal that threatens their reputation. The narrative unfolds through the perspectives of various characters, revealing the complexities of social status, family loyalty, and the impact of public perception. The story begins with the Chiddingfolds hosting a gathering, showcasing their affluence and social standing. However, tensions arise when rumors about their son’s behavior circulate, leading to a series of confrontations and revelations. The family grapples with the implications of these rumors, as they navigate the expectations of their social circle and the media's scrutiny. As the plot progresses, the son’s actions are scrutinized, leading to a deeper exploration of his character and motivations. The family dynamics are tested, revealing underlying tensions and secrets that have long been buried. The narrative delves into themes of honor, shame, and the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their loved ones. The climax of the story occurs when the truth about the son’s actions comes to light, forcing the family to confront their values and the reality of their situation. The resolution sees the Chiddingfolds reevaluating their priorities, ultimately leading to a transformation in their relationships and a renewed understanding of what it means to be a family. Throughout the work, the author employs rich imagery and symbolism, particularly through the motif of hunting, which serves as a metaphor for the pursuit of truth and the complexities of human relationships. The setting, reflective of the English countryside, enhances the themes of tradition and social hierarchy. In conclusion, the narrative encapsulates the struggles of a family facing societal pressures, exploring the interplay between personal integrity and public image. The Chiddingfolds emerge from their trials with a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the world, highlighting the resilience of familial bonds in the face of adversity.

By Sir Arthur Conan Doyle · First published 1926 · Genre: Poetry, Nature Writing, Hunting Literature · 830 words

First lines

The horse is bedded down Where the straw lies deep. The hound is in the kennel; Let the poor hound sleep! And the fox is in the spinney By the run which he is haunting, And I'll lay an even guinea That a goose or two is wanting When the farmer comes to count them in the morning.

The horse is up and saddled; Girth the old horse tight! The hounds are out and drawing In the morning light. Now it's ‘Yoick! ' among the heather, And it's ‘Yoick! ' across the clover, And it's ‘To him, all together! ' ‘Hyke a Bertha! Hyke a Rover! ' And the woodlands smell so sweetly in the morning.

What this Textopian page supports

With the Chiddingfolds is listed on Textopian as a short story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, dated 1926 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

• Work type: Short story
• Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
• Date: 1926 CE
• Language: English
• Genres: Poetry, Nature Writing, Hunting Literature, Lyric, Narrative
• Length: 830 words
• Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
• Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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• Work identity for With the Chiddingfolds by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
• Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
• Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
• Readability and classroom-planning context
• Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph

Discussion starters

• What should a reader notice first when entering With the Chiddingfolds?
• How does this short story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
• Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

• The Old Gray Fox by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
• A Hunting Morning by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
• The Mole Catcher by Sabine Baring Gould
• Hunting Song by Samuel Taylor Coleridge
• The Hayloft by Robert Louis Stevenson
• The Hunting Of Arscott Of Tetcott by Sabine Baring Gould

Genres

• Poetry — The work is structured in verse, utilizing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
• Nature Writing — The vivid descriptions of the countryside, animals, and hunting activities reflect a strong connection to nature.
• Hunting Literature — The central theme revolves around hunting, detailing the experiences and environment associated with the sport.
• Lyric — The poem expresses personal emotions and observations related to the hunting experience.

Tags

hunting · poetry · nature · animals · fox · hound · horse · Chiddingfolds · countryside · adventure · sport · morning

More by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

• The Parish Magazine (1914)
• The Great Brown-Pericord Motor (1914)
• The Holocaust of Manor Place (1901)
• The Debatable Case of Mrs. Emsley (1901)
• The Love Affair of George Vincent Parker (1901)
• The Disintegration Machine (1927)
• The Bully of Brocas Court (1914)
• The Brown Hand (1914)
• All works by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle