Chapter 15 Summary

We learn in this chapter that Elizabeth-Jane is fast becoming the most beautiful woman in town, and that Farfrae is among her biggest admirers. Despite her beauty, though, Elizabeth-Jane feels inadequate because of her lack of an education. This chapter also highlights a power struggle between Michael and Farfrae, as the two clashes over how to discipline an employee named Abel Whittle. When Whittle is late for work, Michael orders him to come to work without wearing pants. Farfrae disagrees with the order, and tells the man to wear his pants. Michael and Farfrae argue in front of the workers and Michael gives up with an indignant remark. He starts to think badly of Farfrae when he learns that people in the town like the Scotsman better than they do him. However, because Farfrae is charming and genuine, that Michael forgives him, and...