The Covenant of Water
by Abraham Verghese
Contents
CHAPTER 46
Overview
As World War II wanes and optimism rises in India, Philipose and Uplift Master close the Feeding Center. Philipose marries Elsie in a joyous, cross-community celebration, winning a reluctant blessing from Shamuel.
The couple consummates their marriage, and Elsie’s first request—cutting the jackfruit that shades their room—quietly tests Philipose’s attachments and signals shifting priorities.
Summary
With the war nearing its end and Indian independence sentiment cresting, Philipose follows global events from Parambil and links the improving mood to local change. He and Uplift Master agree to close the Feeding Center as supplies stabilize.
Philipose and Elsie wed in the church where Big Ammachi married. Elsie, serene and striking in a sari, keeps her adornment minimal. At the reception, Chandy’s rose-decked Ford delivers the couple; Damodaran the elephant garlands Elsie; Sultan Pattar’s biryani and “estate punch” enliven the crowd. Shamuel refuses to enter the church but, coaxed outside, offers a trembling, wordless blessing after Elsie seeks it by touching his feet.
That night, Elsie’s earlier cable—“KEEP MAPS STOP DONT CHANGE ANYTHING STOP WANT TO SEE YOU AS YOU ARE STOP”—assures Philipose his map wall stays. In their new room, they navigate first intimacy with tenderness and mutual uncertainty. Philipose, conscious of his hearing limits, asks Elsie to repeat her whispered assurance that she feels safest with him.
By morning, buoyed by love, Philipose promises to grant Elsie “anything,” including building her a studio. Elsie instead asks him to cut the plavu outside their window to let in morning light. The request startles Philipose, confronting his attachment to a tree that watched over his childhood sleep, and hinting at the adjustments married life will demand.
Who Appears
- PhiliposeGroom and narrator focus; closes Feeding Center, marries Elsie, consummates tenderly, promises “anything,” and is shaken by her request to cut the plavu.
- ElsieBride; confident, minimal adornment, secures Shamuel’s blessing, affirms feeling safe with Philipose, and asks to fell the jackfruit tree for light.
- ShamuelFather figure to Philipose; refuses to enter church, then grants an emotional, reluctant blessing when Elsie seeks it.
- Big AmmachiMatriarch; hosts the wedding at the family church and home, interacts fondly with Damo, facilitates Elsie’s welcome.
- Uplift MasterCommunity leader; agrees with Philipose to close the Feeding Center and attends the wedding.
- ChandyRelative and benefactor; his rose-decked Ford carries the couple, brings estate friends and popular punch.
- Damodaran (Damo)Family elephant; greets the couple, garlands Elsie, delighting guests.
- JoppanRelative; stands proudly with Uplift Master and the men’s side at the wedding.
- Decency KochammaElder; unexpectedly laughs freely during the feast, signaling the joyous mood.
- UnniHelper; hands jasmine garland to Damo for Elsie.
- Sultan PattarCaterer; his mutton biryani anchors the wedding feast.