Lorna Doone · Chapters

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Chapter companions for Lorna Doone by R. D. Blackmore.

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Chapter 1
I: Elements of Education
John Ridd introduces himself as a plain yeoman and churchwarden of Oare, Somerset, who writes to clear his parish's reputation. He recounts his schooling at Tiverton's Blundell's School, describing his modest academic progress, the school's customs such as the 'winkey' prank and the flood tradition when waters cover the founder's initials, and his eventual departure from learning.
Chapter 2
An Important Item
John Ridd recounts the events leading to his leaving Tiverton School, beginning on his twelfth birthday, November 29, 1673. After a day of distributing sweets, he and other boarders drive the day-boys out, then wait at the gate hoping to see a packhorse convoy pursued by his cousin Tom Faggus. A quarrel with Robin Snell leads to a challenge to fight on the 'Ironing-box.' John Fry arrives with a message from home, but the fight proceeds anyway. John reflects on his many school battles and the honor of the Ridd family.
Chapter 3
The Warpath of the Doones
John Ridd recounts his journey home from Tiverton school with John Fry, crossing Exmoor in fog and fear. They pass the gibbet of Red Jem Hannaford and narrowly avoid a band of Doone outlaws riding under Dunkery Beacon's light, one carrying a child.
Chapter 4
A Very Rash Visit
John Ridd recounts the murder of his father by the Doones and describes his mother's brave but futile visit to the Doone stronghold to seek justice. Sir Ensor Doone and Counsellor Doone twist the story to claim self-defense, leaving Mistress Ridd heartbroken and without redress.
Chapter 5
An Illegal Settlement
John Ridd explains the origins of the Doone family's outlaw settlement in Exmoor, tracing back to the dispossession of Sir Ensor Doone in 1640 and the family's descent into robbery and violence. He describes how the Doones grew in strength and terrorized the neighborhood, culminating in the murder of his father, which was met with inaction by local authorities.

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I: Elements of Education

An Important Item

The Warpath of the Doones

A Very Rash Visit

An Illegal Settlement