Pop’s Bond with Mariette

The Darling Buds of May

This flow traces Pop Larkin’s proud, protective relationship with Mariette Larkin as she grows from beloved daughter into a married adult.

increasing

Bearing strength in each event

decreasing

A Proud Father A Proud Father from "The Darling Buds of May". The Eldest Daughter Names and Memories Pop Larkin takes pleasure in recalling the names of his children, including Mariette Larkin’s connection to Marie…

A Proud Father from "The Darling Buds of May". The Eldest Daughter Names and Memories Pop Larkin takes pleasure in recalling the names of his children, including Mariette Larkin’s connection to Marie…

The Eldest Daughter Names and Memories Pop Larkin takes pleasure in recalling the names of his children, including Mariette Larkin’s connection to Marie Antoinette. The family’s history is a source of pride. A Father’s Affection He notices when Mariette is quiet and asks Ma what is wrong. His care emerges through curiosity rather than solemn interrogation.

Concern About the Baby Concern About the Baby from "The Darling Buds of May". Protective Uncertainty A Father’s Questions Pop Larkin learns that Mariette may be pregnant and that the father is uncertain.

Concern About the Baby from "The Darling Buds of May". Protective Uncertainty A Father’s Questions Pop Larkin learns that Mariette may be pregnant and that the father is uncertain.

Protective Uncertainty A Father’s Questions Pop Larkin learns that Mariette may be pregnant and that the father is uncertain. He accepts the news but wonders what will happen. Love Without Judgment He does not shame his daughter or insist on a particular resolution. His response is practical and affectionate, leaving her room to decide.

A Father Offers His Field A Father Offers His Field from "The Darling Buds of May". Supporting Her Passion A Chance to Ride Pop Larkin offers his meadow for the pony gymkhana, remembering how much Mariette Larkin loves horses.

A Father Offers His Field from "The Darling Buds of May". Supporting Her Passion A Chance to Ride Pop Larkin offers his meadow for the pony gymkhana, remembering how much Mariette Larkin loves horses.

Supporting Her Passion A Chance to Ride Pop Larkin offers his meadow for the pony gymkhana, remembering how much Mariette Larkin loves horses. He sees the event as a chance for her to compete again. Family Generosity His public generosity also expresses private fatherly care. The field becomes a gift to both Mariette and the community.

Permission to Marry Permission to Marry from "The Darling Buds of May". A Daughter’s Request Approval Given Mariette and Cedric Charlton ask Pop Larkin to let them marry.

Permission to Marry from "The Darling Buds of May". A Daughter’s Request Approval Given Mariette and Cedric Charlton ask Pop Larkin to let them marry.

A Daughter’s Request Approval Given Mariette and Cedric Charlton ask Pop Larkin to let them marry. Pop agrees immediately, delighted to recognize Cedric as part of the family. A Public Blessing Pop announces their engagement to the guests. His pride and sadness mingle as he accepts that his daughter is entering a new household.

A Bungalow Promised A Bungalow Promised from "The Darling Buds of May". A Home Near the Wood An Offer for the Couple Pop Larkin offers to build Mariette Charlton and Charley Charlton a bungalow in the meadow, using materials from…

A Bungalow Promised from "The Darling Buds of May". A Home Near the Wood An Offer for the Couple Pop Larkin offers to build Mariette Charlton and Charley Charlton a bungalow in the meadow, using materials from…

A Home Near the Wood An Offer for the Couple Pop Larkin offers to build Mariette Charlton and Charley Charlton a bungalow in the meadow, using materials from Bluff Court. He imagines them close to the family and Bluebell Wood. Separation Softened The promise recognizes Mariette’s independent marriage while preserving closeness. Pop’s love takes the form of creating a place for her future.

During the opening drive through the May countryside

After Mariette’s pregnancy is announced

The Sunday the Brigadier seeks a gymkhana venue

During the fireworks at the party

After the wedding and at the close of the story