In this excerpt, the protagonist reflects on her relationship with Mr. Dodgson, questioning whether he is truly the charming companion she once thought him to be. She considers the future and what it would mean to settle down with him in a simple living situation, catching food in a shrimp net. This moment of doubt prompts her to reassess her feelings and desires.

Despite being only eight years old, she grapples with the societal pressure to accept romantic advances. The influence of her friend Jessie Fowler reminds her that there’s no rush to make such a significant decision at her young age. Jessie’s advice serves as a reminder that concerns about growing up, including the idea of spinsterhood, can wait until later.