Far from the Madding Crowd, Chapter 16 summary

What happens

1. A cavalry sergeant enters All Saints’ after the service, and the congregation stays to watch an expected wedding.
2. The sergeant waits motionless at the altar as the clock marks half past eleven, a quarter to twelve, and noon.
3. The spectators grow restless and giggle, while the curate and clerk withdraw before the soldier leaves.
4. Outside, a distressed woman explains that she waits at All Souls’ by mistake.
5. She asks about marrying tomorrow, but Frank refuses and walks away without naming another date.

What to notice

Frank makes his embarrassment a reason to reject another immediate attempt. His response leaves the woman's request for a wedding date unanswered.

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