Short Fiction · Chapter
How His Cold Was Cured explained
Mr.
What happens
Mr. Stockdale, a young Wesleyan minister, arrives in Nether-Moynton as a temporary substitute and lodges with the widow Mrs. Lizzy Newberry. Despite initial indifference from the villagers, Stockdale is charmed by Mrs. Newberry's attentiveness, especially when she offers him a remedy for his cold. Their interactions grow increasingly personal, hinting at mutual affection.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
In this excerpt, the emotional/psychological peak occurs when both Jim and Rosalys consciously recognize their…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Isolation and Longing
Stockdale arrives unknown and alone, but his longing for connection is quickly directed toward Mrs. Newberry.
- Deception and Secrecy
Mrs. Newberry's slip about her 'first husband' hints at hidden aspects of her past, and Stockdale grapples with the moral implications of his growing feelings.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Stockdale
The young Wesleyan minister who arrives in Nether-Moynton and lodges with Mrs. Newberry; he develops a strong attraction to her.
- Lizzy Newberry
A widow who provides lodging for Stockdale; she is attentive and kind, and Stockdale becomes infatuated with her.
Key passages
“Something delayed the arrival of the Wesleyan minister, and a young man came temporarily in his stead.”
The regular minister was delayed, so a young substitute was sent instead.
Introduces Stockdale's temporary role in the village.
“He had never in his life so longed for the breakfast hour as he did that day, and punctually at eight o’clock, after a short walk, to reconnoitre the premises, he reentered the door of his dwelling.”
Stockdale eagerly awaited breakfast, hoping to see Mrs. Newberry again.
Shows Stockdale's growing infatuation.
