The Harrisons' Reconciliation
Anne of AvonleaThe return of Emily ends years of separation, as both spouses recognize that their quarrel grew from mutual stubbornness and unrealistic expectations.
increasing
Bearing strength in each event
decreasing
The Marriage Before Avonlea

The Marriage Before Avonlea
A Practical Match
Harrison marries Emily Scott after his sister urges him to settle. Emily is a capable housekeeper, and Harrison initially feels fortunate that she accepted him.
Domestic Disagreement
On returning from their wedding trip, Emily immediately cleans and tries to reform Harrison's habits. He feels crowded by her standards, while she believes she is improving their home.
The Parrot at the Table

The Parrot at the Table
A Forgotten Promise
Harrison intends to put Ginger away before guests arrive but forgets. The parrot's profanity disrupts a minister's grace when a gobbler appears outside.
The Final Break
Emily leaves a letter demanding that Harrison choose between her and Ginger. Harrison refuses to give up the parrot, and the couple's separation becomes permanent for years.
Years Apart

Years Apart
Silence and Pride
Emily returns to her own home, while Harrison moves to Avonlea and avoids discussing the marriage. He remains angry, lonely, and unwilling to make the first concession.
A Reputation Grows
Avonlea assumes Harrison is a bachelor and invents stories about his possible courtship. Neither spouse's private pain is visible in the settlement's easy gossip.
Emily Comes to Avonlea

Emily Comes to Avonlea
The Rumor Unmasked
Emily arrives at Green Gables asking for Harrison and identifies herself as his wife. Anne and Marilla are stunned to learn that the supposed bachelor has been married all along.
A Chance to Explain
Rachel Lynde accompanies Emily and learns the story directly. The couple's return forces Avonlea to replace speculation with the complicated truth.
A Mutual Admission

A Mutual Admission
Harrison's Account
Harrison admits that he was cantankerous and resisted Emily's attempts to change him. He also explains his attachment to Ginger and the pain of their separation.
Emily's Perspective
Emily recognizes that she expected too much and should not have let a quarrel harden into years apart. Their reconciliation begins with a more generous reading of each other's faults.
three years before Emily's arrival
years before the main story, during a dinner with ministers
the three years before Emily returns
June, after the hailstorm
the days after Emily's arrival