Chapter 31

Expecting that Boldwood will come to meet her after receiving her letter, Bathsheba decides to accept Liddy's invitation to visit her married sister. Bathsheba leaves Gabriel and Maryann in charge of the farm and leaves the house soon after a thunderstorm is over. As Bathsheba is enjoying her walk down the path, she sees Boldwood advancing in her direction. He does not notice her at first. Boldwood looks disturbed and asks Bathsheba why she appears frightened of him. He questions her about whether her decision not to marry him is final. He even asks Bathsheba to have pity for him. Bathsheba controls herself with great difficulty as Boldwood appears almost mad when he is pleading with her. He reminds her, without actually blaming her that it was she who had first drawn his attention to herself. Bathsheba apologizes for her act, but says that she still cannot marry him. Boldwood then becomes angry and scolds her for getting carried away by Troy's manners. Bathsheba does not attempt to deny her feelings for Troy. Boldwood warns her that he will seek revenge on Troy for having stolen away his love. He curses Troy and goes on his way. Bathsheba is very worried for Troy's safety since she believes Boldwood will seek revenge.

Boldwood's temper has been greatly disturbed. He acts extremely angry to Bathsheba, the woman he loves, and he threatens revenge on Troy, who has stolen her heart away. He bears no resemblance to the dignified and gentlemanly person seen in the beginning of the novel. Hardy foreshadows that his uncontrollable emotions will bring tragic consequences.

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