The Transformation of Ben Weatherstaff

Follows Ben Weatherstaff from a surly, lonely old man to a valued member of the children's circle, softened by the garden and the children.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

A Surly Gardener

A Surly Gardener First Impressions Ben Weatherstaff is a grumpy old man who resents Mary's questions. He tells her she is as sour as he is. He has no family and only the robin for company. A Lonely Life Ben lives alone and has few friends. His only joy is the robin, who he has known since it was a fledgling. He is bitter and isolated. A Mirror for Mary Ben's sourness reflects Mary's own. She recognizes herself in him. This recognition is the beginning of empathy.

Secret Care for the Garden

Secret Care for the Garden Loyalty to Lilias Ben has secretly entered the garden over the years to prune the roses. He did it out of love for Lilias Craven, who was kind to him. His secret work kept the garden alive. A Hidden Kindness Despite his gruff exterior, Ben is capable of great loyalty and tenderness. His care for the garden is an act of love that no one knows about. The Garden's Debt The garden's survival owes much to Ben. When the children discover this, they gain a new respect for him. His secret is as important as theirs.

Discovering the Children

Discovering the Children Anger and Shock Ben sees Mary, Dickon, and Colin in the garden and is furious. He feels they have trespassed on sacred ground. He threatens to tell Mr. Craven. Colin's Defiance Colin stands up and confronts Ben, proving he is not a cripple. Ben is stunned. The sight of the boy standing straight changes his attitude. A Change of Heart Ben's anger melts into wonder. He sees Lilias's eyes in Colin's face. He agrees to keep the secret and help. His heart softens.

Becoming Part of the Circle

Becoming Part of the Circle Helping with the Rose Ben brings a rose plant for Colin to plant. He kneels beside the boy and helps him set it in the earth. This act symbolizes his acceptance. Joining the Magic Ceremony Ben participates in Colin's Magic ceremony, though he grumbles. He is moved by the children's faith. He begins to believe in the garden's power. A New Purpose Ben now has a role in the secret. He is no longer just a lonely old man but a guardian of the garden. The children give him a reason to live.

Tears of Joy

Tears of Joy The Doxology When the children sing the Doxology in the garden, Ben is moved to tears. He has never understood religion, but he understands joy. A Changed Man Ben's rough exterior cracks. He admits he may change his mind about the Doxology. The children's happiness has touched him deeply. Final Acceptance At the end, Ben is part of the family. He watches Colin walk with his father and smiles. His transformation from sour to soft is complete.

when Mary first meets him

over the ten years

when Ben sees them in the garden

after the confrontation

when the Doxology is sung