The House of the Seven Gables: Chapter 10 Summary & Analysis

Clifford tends to spend all day drowsing in his chair, but Phoebe often coaxes him into the garden, where Uncle Venner and Holgrave have made repairs to the arbor, providing a shady place to sit. Phoebe reads to Clifford and talks to him about the garden blooms. Clifford grows childlike at the sight of hummingbirds that flock to the garden’s blossoms. Hepzibah recalls that Clifford delighted in hummingbirds even as a baby. This remembrance always moves her to tears, comparing his present childlike happiness to his stolen past and uncertain future. They also enjoy watching the chickens—who, on Clifford’s request, have been set free from their coop—and admiring the shifting sunlight reflecting in Maule’s Well. However, sometimes Clifford becomes frightened, believing that he sees a “dark face” in the well.

After Phoebe goes to church on Sundays, she, Clifford, Hepzibah, Holgrave, and Uncle Venner gather in the Pyncheon garden. Clifford especially enjoys Uncle Venner’s company because the latter, besides being cheerful, helps him feel comparatively youthful for a brief time. They all enjoy fresh garden-picked currants and conversation. Clifford grows especially animated and fanciful during these gatherings. As evening draws near, however, his mood generally darkens as he murmurs, “I want my happiness!”