As young Peters walks with his friend Ralph Gilpin, they pass by an oyster-cellar, known for selling liquor. Peters suggests that they get oysters, but Gilpin objects, fearing his name will be ruined if someone sees him go inside.
Peters questions how getting oysters could taint Gilpin’s name. They are not buying liquor and have clean consciences; what does it matter what others think of them? But Gilpin desires to keep both his conscience clear and his good name.
They part and Peters goes down into the oyster-cellar. While in the cellar, Peters notices a man watching him with surprise and scrutiny. A little unnerved, Peters ignores the man.
A few weeks later, Peters and Gilpin plan a row-boat excursion. When Peters mentions Tom Forsyth as an addition to their party, Gilpin objects since Forsyth does not have a good reputation. Peters counters saying that Forsyth is a good rower.
Despite all of Peters’s arguments to include Forsyth, his friend refuses to go on the trip, saying: “A tainted name is no shadow; but a real evil to be afraid of.” By associating with Forsyth, Gilpin explains that his good name would be damaged.
Associations Have Consequences
Unlike Gilpin, Peters does not contemplate the impact of his association with bad types but soon learns. When he applies for a prestigious job at a large wholesale house, he recognizes the employer as the man who watched him at the oyster-cellar and dock.This employer is not impressed by how Peters cares for his good name. Because Peters is careless in small situations, the employer worries he will be careless in important situations. Peters is turned away.
Peters struggles to keep a good job and loses a big opportunity to his friend. His bad luck comes from the fact that people “are judged by the company they keep and the places in which they are seen.”
Through this story, Arthur shows us the importance of a good name. Names signify quality, good or bad. How we act, especially in public, will increase or decrease our reputation.
Arthur suggests that we be more conscious of our associations, for they influence not only our name, but also our spirit. It’s always a wise decision to associate with people and places that elevate us in the eyes of others.
L.M. Montgomery says in “Anne of Avonlea” that one must live: “so that you beautify your name, even if it wasn’t beautiful to begin with … [and make your name] stand in people’s thoughts for something so lovely and pleasant that they never think of it by itself.”
We must strive for goodness in our character, who we associate with, and our professional life, so that our very names radiate the value we possess in our hearts.
