Little House on the Prairie Forums

*WARNING: Spoilers*

In the episode "The Handyman,"

#1 Do you believe Mary was just acting like a complete jerk to Chris when she asked him to leave, or was she justifiable intrying to keep her family together in what she perceived was a sticky situation?

And,

#2 Caroline reacts angrily to Mary when she finds out what she's done, saying she's shocked and hurt at her perception of the situation and that Chris would never make a move on her as a married woman (rephrasing her words a bit). However, there's some major sexual tension between Caroline and Chris, and it's clearly not one-sided, esp. when Charles comes home and Caroline quietly laments him leaving again so soon - it's obvious she doesn't entirely trust herself. So,if Charles had been delayed another week or two in returning, do you think Chris would have put the moves on Ma, and how would Ma have reacted? (Again, naturally this is pure speculation and just for fun).

Was Mary justified?

Yes, in her mind, but she should know her Ma better then that though.

Would Chris?

I think he would have sent out a feeler, subtlety hinted, and quickly got his answer then gave up. I don't think the thought even occurred to Ma, we know she would never entertain even the thought, that's why she's so shocked at Mary's accusation.

I have to say, I love watching Ma get mad, she so loses her usual cool and she means business! I guess we know where Mary got her temper from.