The Revolt of Mary Isabel Page #5

"The Revolt of Mary Isabel" is a short story by Lucy Maud Montgomery that explores themes of individuality, freedom, and the struggles of a young girl against societal expectations. The narrative centers around Mary Isabel, a girl who feels stifled by the conventional norms imposed on her by her family and community. As she navigates her feelings of rebellion and desires for autonomy, the story delves into the conflicts between personal aspirations and the roles assigned to women in her era. Montgomery's characteristic lyrical prose highlights the emotional depth of Mary Isabel's journey toward self-discovery and empowerment.

• Short story

								

    him often at the shore this summer. I would like you to be
    present at the ceremony if you choose.

                                                Mary Isabel.

Tommy ran across the field with the note.

It had now ceased raining and the clouds were breaking. Mary Isabel
thought that a good omen. She and the doctor watched Tommy from the
window. They saw Louisa come to the door, take the note, and shut the
door in Tommy's face. Ten minutes later she reappeared, habited in her
mackintosh, with her second-best bonnet on.

"She's--coming," said Mary Isabel, trembling.

The doctor put his arm protectingly about the little lady.

Mary Isabel tossed her head. "Oh, I'm not--I'm only excited. I shall
never be afraid of Louisa again."

Louisa came grimly over the field, up the verandah steps, and into the
room without knocking.

"Mary Isabel," she said, glaring at her sister and ignoring the doctor
entirely, "did you mean what you said in that letter?"

"Yes, I did," said Mary Isabel firmly.

"You are going to be married to that man in this shameless, indecent
haste?"

"Yes."

"And nothing I can say will have the least effect on you?"

"Not the slightest."

"Then," said Louisa, more grimly than ever, "all I ask of you is to
come home and be married from under your father's roof. Do have that
much respect for your parents' memory, at least."

"Of course I will," cried Mary Isabel impulsively, softening at once.
"Of course we will--won't we?" she asked, turning prettily to the
doctor.

"Just as you say," he answered gallantly.

Louisa snorted. "I'll go home and air the parlour," she said. "It's
lucky I baked that fruitcake Monday. You can come when you're ready."

She stalked home across the field. In a few minutes the doctor and
Mary Isabel followed, and behind them came the young minister,
carrying his blue book under his arm, and trying hard and not
altogether successfully to look grave.
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