Chapter 11 Summary

After church, many members of the congregation meet outside to chat; families and friends huddle together. Pieter's mother suggests that he take Nella to the coast on holiday. Jakob, his church duties concluded, joins the family. The dominee, seeing Pieter, comes over to the van Vlaanderen family and introduces himself. He recognizes Pieter, having heard of him because of his rugby prowess. He mentions that Pieter is known as the Lion of the North.

He also recognizes the women and they are all in awe of his presence. When asked about his rugby, the dominee jokes that it is almost his religion. Pieter, during the sermon believes that he can confide in Dominee Vos, but after talking with him outside the church, where Pieter is called the Lion of the North he decides he cannot tell him.

Chapter 11 Analysis

Pieter's foolish pride is...