Far from the Madding Crowd Chapter XXVII

In which Bathsheba, engaged in the rural task of hiving a recalcitrant swarm of bees, encounters Troy just as she endeavours to manage the venture alone, leading to an exchange marked by a mixture of wit and restrained awkwardness. Their conversation turns to a curious invitation to witness Troy's sword-exercise, hinting at a shared moment of intimacy set to unfold away from prying eyes.