Chapter No. 17 Good Bye Mr. Chips

In Chapter 17 of “Goodbye, Mr. Chips,” the protagonist, Mr. Chipping, is depicted reflecting on his life. He sits in his front parlour at Mrs. Wickett’s residence on a cold and foggy November afternoon in 1933. Since Armistice Day, he has not been feeling well, suspecting that he may have caught a slight chill during a chapel service. Marivale, a friend, has visited him and inquired about his well-being, advising him to stay indoors due to the prevalence of flu.

Mr. Chipping reminisces about his life, recalling the significant moments and experiences he has had. The narrative takes the reader through a montage of his past, from his time at Cambridge in the sixties to his experiences at Great Gable and Brookfield School throughout the years. Despite the rich tapestry of his life, Mr. Chipping acknowledges the things he has not done, such as travel and attend a talky show, realizing that certain opportunities are now beyond reach.

As Mr. Chipping reflects, Mrs. Wickett is away visiting relatives, leaving the tea-things ready on the table in case of any visitors. Despite the cold and foggy weather, a surprise visitor arrives—a small boy wearing a Brookfield cap. The boy, having just recovered from measles and released from the sanatorium, informs Mr. Chipping that he was told Mr. Chips wanted to see him. Mr. Chipping, amused by the old joke, invites the boy to tea and learns about his absence due to illness. The chapter ends with Mr. Chipping preparing tea and sharing a moment with the young visitor.

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