Wellington, New Zealand

The story begins in Wellington, New Zealand, Fenella's original home. Fenella and her grandmother are traveling to Picton, where Fenella's grandparents live, and leaving Fenella's father Frank behind in Wellington. The story suggests that Frank is sending his daughter away because he cannot care for her appropriately in the wake of his wife's death. The author, Katherine Mansfield, is also originally from Wellington.

The Boat Cabin

A large portion of the story takes place on the boat from Wellington to Picton. Mary and Fenella share a very small cabin on the boat and are attended to by a kind stewardess who is familiar with Fenella's grandmother. In the cabin, Fenella observes her grandmother and is surprised and impressed by her capabilities. It is in the cabin that Fenella starts to show signs of growth and maturity as she worries about the umbrella falling and helps guide...