How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Paragraph)
Quote #4
There, in fact, stood the four glasses, brimful of this wonderful water, the delicate spray of which, as it effervesced from the surface, resembled the tremulous glitter of diamonds. It was now so nearly sunset that the chamber had grown duskier than ever; but a mild and moonlike splendor gleamed from within the vase, and rested alike on the four guests and on the doctor's venerable figure. (32)
OK, this is the last time we're going to talk about the word "venerable," we promise. But this is the third time Hawthorne has used the word in this very short story, so we ought to pay attention. The first two, we've argued, were ironic – clearly, the foolish old guests are anything but venerable. But what of this usage – now the word is being used to describe Dr. Heidegger! Is it similarly ironic, or does the narrator genuinely believe that the Doctor is worthy of respect?
Quote #5
As they struggled to and fro, the table was over-turned, and the vase dashed into a thousand fragments. The precious Water of Youth flowed in a bright stream across the floor […]
"Come, come, gentlemen! – come, Madam Wycherly,'' exclaimed the doctor, "I really must protest against this riot.'' (42-43)
Dr. Heidegger isn't even upset about the spilled potion! This could either be because he knows it isn't real, or because he's already concluded that he wants nothing to do with growing young again.
Quote #6
"Yes, friends, ye are old again,'' said Dr. Heidegger, "and lo! the Water of Youth is all lavished on the ground. Well – I bemoan it not; for if the fountain gushed at my very doorstep, I would not stoop to bathe my lips in it – no, though its delirium were for years instead of moments. Such is the lesson ye have taught me!'' (51)
Why does Dr. Heidegger assume that, because his guests became fools again when they were young, he himself would do the same thing?