The Keith Twins' Permanent Settlement

The twins move from maternal loss and temporary care toward permanence at Green Gables, where their inheritance confirms a home already secured by affection.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Mary's Last Request

Mary's Last Request A Mother Near Death Mary Keith is too ill to raise her twins and has not heard from her brother in a way that can solve their immediate needs. She hesitates to ask neighbors to take them. Marilla's Decision Marilla Cuthbert understands that the children need shelter through winter. Anne Shirley urges her to accept them as a matter of duty, and Marilla agrees.

The Funeral Journey

The Funeral Journey A Restless Child Marilla brings Davy and Dora home after the funeral. Davy cannot keep still, teases Dora, and talks freely about their mother's last instructions. A New Attachment Davy responds to Marilla's sternness with affectionate hugs, already weakening her resistance. Anne meets the twins at Green Gables and welcomes them into the household.

Two Different Adjustments

Two Different Adjustments Dora's Ease Dora is orderly and obedient, quickly fitting household expectations. Her calm makes her seem easy to care for, though her timidity also leaves her vulnerable. Davy's Energy Davy tests boundaries through pranks and questions. Anne sees a child in need of guidance rather than merely a source of trouble, while Marilla struggles to manage his energy.

A Guardian's Uncertainty

A Guardian's Uncertainty A Temporary Arrangement Extended The twins' uncle says he still cannot take them and asks Marilla to keep them until fall. Marilla agrees, having grown accustomed to the children. Growing Roots Anne notes that Davy's manners have improved, even if his morals and impulses remain unpredictable. The household is already functioning as more than a short-term refuge.

Inheritance and Belonging

Inheritance and Belonging Financial Security A letter reports that Richard Keith has died and left money in trust for the twins. Marilla can now provide for them without fearing that their care will consume Anne's savings. A Home Confirmed Davy and Dora are told they may stay at Green Gables for good. Their happiness makes clear that the inheritance matters chiefly because it secures the home they already love.

autumn, as Mary Keith's illness worsens

the day of Mary Keith's funeral

the first month at Green Gables

the following spring, after a letter from the uncle

a month later, after Richard Keith's death