Far from the Madding Crowd, Chapter 11 summary

What happens

1. At ten on a snowy evening, a small figure counts barracks windows and throws snow across the river to attract attention.
2. Sergeant Troy opens his window, and Fanny Robin identifies herself, calling herself his wife.
3. Troy says the closed gates and his lack of leave prevent him from joining her.
4. Fanny presses him about marriage, explaining that banns must be announced in both their parishes.
5. Troy postpones arrangements, admits he lacks officers’ permission, and agrees to visit her at Mrs. Twills’s.
6. Fanny leaves, and mocking calls to the sergeant give way to laughter inside the barracks.

In this chapter

What to notice

Troy offers reassurance only after Fanny presses him. His conditional wording contrasts with her certainty about his repeated promises.

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