# Puddle — The Well of Loneliness character guide > Puddle in The Well of Loneliness by Radclyffe Hall. **Role:** supporting **Also known as:** Mademoiselle Puddle, old Puddle, loyal Puddle **First appearance:** 0003-book-i ## Snapshot Stephen's aging governess turned fierce literary guardian, she manages the flat, the accounts, and the fragile author with equal devotion. ## Who they are Puddle has watched Stephen since the Morton schoolroom and now runs her London household like an anxious Vestal Virgin tending a sacred flame. She finds the flat on the Embankment, pays the rent, coaxes the recalcitrant novelist through dry spells with Brand's Essence and sharp scolding. Her long-sighted eyes miss nothing—not the nicotine-stained fingers, not the despair—and her loyalty gives Stephen the one steady love she never has to explain. ## Relationships ### [Stephen Gordon](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/characters/stephen_gordon) _friendship_ Puddle is Stephen's loyal governess and lifelong friend, offering unwavering support and understanding. ### [Jonathan Brockett](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/characters/jonathan_brockett) _friendship_ Jonathan and Puddle share a mutual care for Stephen and become allies in supporting her. ### [Stephen Gordon](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/characters/stephen_gordon) _friendship_ Puddle is Stephen's loyal governess and lifelong friend, offering unwavering support and understanding. ### [Stephen Gordon](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/characters/stephen_gordon) _friendship_ Puddle is Stephen's loyal governess and lifelong friend, offering unwavering support and understanding. ## In the story ### [The Well of Loneliness](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/the-well-of-loneliness) Loyal mentor who fears for Stephen's future. ### [Book I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/book-i) Stephen's governess, observant and concerned for Stephen's well-being. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/v) Stephen's governess, who observes Stephen's struggles with concern and attempts to offer guidance. ### [VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/vi) Fears for Stephen's future and supports her through her struggles. ### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/vii) Observes Stephen's struggles with concern, understanding the challenges Stephen faces in a society that does not accept her. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/ii) Stephen's tutor, a small, square, grey-clad woman with a firm chin and warm smile; she imposes order, teaches with genius, and becomes a trusted friend. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/iii) Puddle has been Stephen's tutor for three years, ingeniously guiding her education and helping her develop both mind and body. ### [VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/viii) Puddle serves as a confidante and source of support for Stephen, understanding her struggles more than most. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/ii) Puddle observes Stephen's social distress with concern, comparing her confident student to the awkward young woman at parties, and feels uneasy about Stephen's inability to cope. ### [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/ix) Mentioned in Stephen's reflections as a supportive figure from her past. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/i) Mentioned as working upstairs in the schoolroom, swatting at Greek to keep pace with Stephen. ### [Chapter X](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/x) Puddle observes Stephen's struggles with concern, embodying loyalty and quiet support. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/i) Sings in church, writes to her sister, and is present during the family festivities. ### [XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/xi) Puddle remains a supportive figure, though her influence is now more distant. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/i) Reacts with unusual emotion to Stephen's mention of Martin, kissing her in a rare display of affection. ### [XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/xiii) Mentioned in connection with Stephen's fears and the burden of secrecy. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/ii) Mentioned by Sir Philip as an example of a well-educated, sensible woman to justify Stephen's Oxford education. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/iii) Puddle is angry with Anna and Sir Philip, and tries to harden Stephen while offering her support. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/i) Miss Puddleton is sent by Stephen to break the news gently to Lady Anna. ### [Book II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/book-ii) Stephen's governess; observes Stephen's struggles with concern and loyalty. ### [XV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/xv) Mentioned in the context of Stephen's past and her fears for Stephen. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/i) Frustrated by the 'tyranny of silence,' she feels helpless to guide Stephen and considers leaving but decides to stay. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/ii) Remains at her post, waiting grimly for something to happen. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/iv) Brightly inquires about Stephen's lateness, warns Stephen about Angela Crossby's reputation, and regrets her clumsy advice after Stephen's outburst. ### [XVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/xvii) Puddle is mentioned as a loyal but concerned presence, having previously warned Stephen about the difficulties she would face. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/i) Puddle is present in the evening when Stephen shows off her new neckties, but responds with a grunt, indicating disapproval or lack of enthusiasm. ### [XVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/xviii) Implied presence as a confidante, though not directly featured in the excerpt. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/i) Resents Angela's presence and deeply mistrusts her. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/iii) Faithful and anxious, she sticks to Stephen like a leech, curses her own folly, and longs to give wise advice but is bound by the conspiracy of silence. ### [XXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/xxi) Mentioned in Stephen's thoughts as a loyal figure from her past. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/i) Writes from Morton; Stephen reassures Anna that all is well there. ### [XXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/xxii) Observes Stephen's turmoil from a distance, worried about her former pupil's choices. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/i) Greets Stephen at Morton with a warm, mocking, pitiful smile; Stephen lifts her up and feels glad to be home. ### [XXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/xxiii) Mentioned as a loyal figure from Stephen's past, now absent. ### [XXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/xxiv) Puddle observes the growing tension between Stephen and Mary with concern. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/ii) Puddle is distressed by Stephen's decay and argues with God like Job. ### [VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/vi) Puddle is mentioned as praying for Stephen at that moment. ### [XXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/xxv) Puddle observes Stephen's emotional turmoil and fears for her future, offering quiet support. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/ii) Waits in the hall, snaps at Stephen about Angela, and expresses deep worry over Stephen's appearance and behavior. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/iii) Waits for Stephen at Morton, confronts her about her absence and distress, and offers understanding. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/i) Mentioned as the companion Anna plans to send with Stephen when she leaves Morton. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/ii) Puddle finds Stephen in despair and offers her support, sharing her own past suffering and encouraging Stephen to find purpose in her difference. ### [Book III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/book-iii) Stephen thinks about Puddle's loyalty and guidance. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/i) Stephen's loyal companion and caretaker in London. She manages the household, tends to Stephen's health, and scolds her when her courage falters. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/iii) Puddle is Stephen's former governess who takes charge of managing Stephen's public relations, answering calls, giving interviews, and shielding Stephen from unwanted attention. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/iv) Observes Stephen's distress and is internally devastated, realizing her own theories about endurance offer no comfort against Stephen's physical and spiritual bondage. ### [XXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/xxix) Puddle observes the growing tension between Stephen and Mary with concern, fearing for Stephen's emotional well-being. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/i) Tries to console Stephen about her novel but is rebuffed. ### [The Unlit Lamp](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/xxx) Puddle is a steady, loyal presence in Stephen's life, offering silent support and understanding. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/i) Mentioned as having accepted Brockett despite disliking his clothes and cufflinks; she welcomed him as a potential distraction for Stephen. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/ii) Puddle is present and offers to help with the parcels, but Brockett insists on doing everything himself. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/iii) Silently angry at Brockett's bluntness, she remains cold and focused on her embroidery. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/iv) Angry and bitter, her pride wounded for Stephen; she tries to deceive Stephen by dismissing Brockett's words. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/v) Stephen acknowledges that Puddle has saved her and will accompany her abroad. ### [XXXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/xxxi) Puddle remains a supportive but worried observer, concerned about the challenges Stephen and Mary face. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/i) Travels with Stephen to Paris; receives roses from Brockett; watches Stephen carefully during lunch. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/ii) Present during the tour but too tired to talk; she remains silent as Stephen and Brockett engage with the historical atmosphere. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/iii) Puddle feels old and frightened, homesick for England, and worries about Stephen's future and the lack of suitable companions. ### [VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/vi) Puddle questions Stephen about her meeting with Valérie Seymour and worries that Stephen may not find happiness in a city, given her love for country life. ### [XXXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/xxxii) Observes Stephen's behavior with concern, recognizing the destructive patterns emerging in her relationship with Mary. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/i) Accompanies Stephen on furniture-hunting trips and is given a round sanctum in the turret of the new house. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/ii) Quietly supports Stephen, dozes by the fire, and shares the Christmas meal with her. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/i) Puddle lives with Stephen, anxious about her but relieved by their quiet life. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/ii) Puddle is present at the reunion and is an amused spectator, later expressing that she likes Mademoiselle Duphot. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/iv) Accompanies Stephen on the visit, also examines the picture of Thérèse, and is present during the conversation about the miracle. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/v) Visits Mademoiselle Duphot alone; discusses Stephen's childhood and future guardedly; forms a sympathetic alliance with Mademoiselle Duphot. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/i) Expresses relief that England entered the war, representing the older generation's perspective. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/ii) Encourages Stephen, suggesting the war may give her sort of woman a chance. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/iii) Accompanies Stephen in farewells and travels with her to England. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/iv) Gets a job in a Government department, shares a flat with Stephen in Victoria, and sympathetically listens to Stephen's plans. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/v) Receives letters from Morton with reports on the estate and lists of war dead. ### [Book IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/book-iv) Stephen's loyal governess, who fears for Stephen's future and supports her through the difficult transition. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/i) Anxious about Stephen's mother; reluctantly agrees to visit Morton after Stephen's request. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/iv) Likely one of the four women, part of the ambulance crew. ### [XXXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/xxxvi) Observes the growing tension between Stephen and Mary with concern. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/i) Mentioned in Mary's curiosity about Morton; a figure from Stephen's past. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/iii) Sends food and luxuries to Stephen, and follows the war closely with a map and pins. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/iii) Mentioned as having written a letter to Stephen. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/iv) Puddle senses Stephen's unhappiness and the nature of her attachment to Mary. She struggles with jealousy and resentment but ultimately decides to stay at Morton, effectively ending their close companionship. ### [XXXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/xxxix) Mentioned in connection with Stephen's past and fears. ### [Book V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/book-v) Supports Stephen during the discovery and aftermath, offering quiet loyalty. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/iii) Her old room overlooking the garden is now Mary's bedroom. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/ii) Mentioned as one of the two women awaiting Stephen at Morton, whom Stephen loves and respects. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/i) Advises Stephen to use her work as a weapon and the only harbour for Mary. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/i) Sends a long, triumphant letter celebrating Stephen's success. ### [XLVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/xlviii) Puddle is remembered as a loyal and supportive figure, whose influence has helped Stephen navigate her challenges. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/i) Recalled as having divined the truth that 'like to like' applies to people like Stephen. ### [L](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/l) Puddle is not physically present in this chapter but is referenced as a figure of past guidance and concern for Stephen's future. ### [LI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/li) Observes Stephen's destructive behavior and the deterioration of her relationship with Mary, offering a concerned perspective. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/ii) Stephen mentions Puddle in conversation with Valérie, recalling her earlier opinion of Valérie. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/i) Forwarded Martin's letter from Morton to Stephen. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/chapters/ii) Referenced as Stephen's former confidante who has not seen Mary and cannot easily visit. ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/characters/puddle - Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se - All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_well_of_loneliness_se/characters