a new england nun

Luisa Ellis is a person who is independent and set in her ways. The manner in which she has repetitive precise movements can be interpreted as having an obsessive compulsive disorder. In this story, it is a device to show how she was able to develop a life of normalcy during a time of chaos. Her fiancé left to go and establish himself financially overseas. She had no control over what he was doing or how long he would be doing it. However,she was dedicated to him and their promised nuptials. During this period, she also suffered the personal loss of family members. Louisa Ellis is a rule follower. Another example is the manner in which the dog was treated. She felt a connection to the animal as it reminded her of her brother, however kept it on a short leash as this was the agreement made when the dog bit someone. Some knew the dog was told old and feeble to cause harm to anyone, but she still provided it with a simple diet and kept it chained up.
Joe Daggert is the complete opposite of Luisa Ellis. He is a risk taker which is evident by his choice to establish himself financially. The canary going crazy and him knocking over her work basket symbolize the chaos he represents.
Luisa Ellis did not want to marry Joe Daggert. She may have at one time, but that was long ago. She is independent and set in her ways. She did not welcome the chaos this union would bring. It would be disruptive to her routine and the lifestyle she has become accustomed to. However, as she is a rule follower, she made a commitment and was willing to stick to it. Over hearing that conversation provided her with the window of opportunity she needed. She was able to see the Joe felt the same and they were both willing to move ahead out of obligation.
Is Louisa “noble” in giving up Joe? I don’t think so. While she gave up Joe, it was already established he could not have what he truly wanted, Lily Dyer. She gave up Joe as it was the right thing to do for the both of them.