Chapter 17 - "Just Like a Book"

Summary

John Pendleton greets Pollyanna with a smile, thanking her for her past kindnesses and inviting her to see his collection of carved treasures from his travels. After Pollyanna brings him a carved box from the library, he shares stories of the curios while they discuss their mutual acquaintances and Pendleton's past loneliness. He admits that he initially refused to see her because she reminded him of something he wished to forget, but now desires her visits because their absence only heightened his longing. Later, Pollyanna recounts the visit to Nancy, who excitedly deduces that John Pendleton was Miss Polly's former lover based on his emotional reaction to learning her niece's identity.

Characters

• John Pendleton (Mr. Pendleton) — John Pendleton smiles at Pollyanna and thanks her for her past visits and the jelly, noting her bravery. He retrieves a carved box filled with travel curiosities to show her, sharing entertaining stories about each item. He admits that he previously wanted to avoid her because she reminded him of painful memories, but confesses that his loneliness now makes him eager to see her often.
• Pollyanna — Pollyanna happily complies with Pendleton's request to bring the carved box and listens to his stories with wonder. She reflects on the Ladies' Aid's choice of helping distant children over Jimmy Bean while observing Pendleton's sadness. She agrees to visit him often and later eagerly shares the details of the 'mystery' with Nancy, defending Pendleton's true nature.