The character who spoke the lines "I'll always stick to you, Rat" and continued with "what you say is to be—has got to be" is the Mole. These loyal words are directed towards Rat in Kenneth Grahame's classic novel, The Wind in the Willows.
The quote highlights Mole's unwavering devotion and trust in his friend, Rat, emphasizing his commitment to Rat's decisions and leadership. This moment occurs when Mole reaffirms his companionship, indicating that he will always remain by Rat's side, and whatever Rat decrees is to be considered absolute.
Context of the Quote
This significant exchange takes place in the chapter "The Open Road" within The Wind in the Willows. It underscores the deep bond and loyalty that defines the friendship between Mole and Rat. Mole's declaration serves to reassure Rat of his steadfast allegiance, even when Rat's plans might seem less exciting or differ from Mole's initial inclinations.
The full context of the dialogue further illustrates Mole's character:
"'Of course I am,' said the Mole, loyally. 'I'll always stick to you, Rat, and what you say is to be—has got to be. All the same, it sounds as if it might have been—well, rather fun, you know!'"
This shows Mole's loyalty intertwined with his simple, fun-loving nature, even as he commits to Rat's decisions.
Key Details
To clearly identify the speaker and the quoted lines, refer to the table below:
| Character | Quote | Addressee | Novel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mole | "I'll always stick to you, Rat, and what you say is to be—has got to be." | Rat | The Wind in the Willows |
Exploring Mole's Character and Loyalty
The Wind in the Willows is renowned for its vivid characters and the exploration of themes such as friendship, home, and adventure. Mole, initially timid and eager to explore the world beyond his burrow, finds a guiding companion in Rat. His loyalty to Rat is a consistent theme throughout the book, showcasing:
- Devotion: Mole frequently defers to Rat's judgment and accompanies him on many adventures.
- Trust: He places immense trust in Rat's wisdom and experience, especially when navigating unfamiliar situations.
- Companionship: Their friendship forms the emotional core of many chapters, depicting a strong, reliable bond.
This particular quote perfectly encapsulates Mole's affectionate and faithful nature, reinforcing his role as Rat's most reliable friend. The phrase "what you say is to be—has got to be" underscores the absolute conviction Mole has in Rat's authority and judgment. For more details on this classic work, you can explore resources like the University of South Florida's Lit2Go collection, which includes The Open Road chapter.
