It seems rather out of character for Scout to be
disdainful of Walter Cunningham, whom she has defended to Miss Caroline at school. By
saying "He ain't company, Cal; he's just a Cunningham," Scout seems to be implying that
Walter is no one special since his father and he have come to the house to give payment
to her father at times, and since she sees him all the time at school. To Scout,
"company" is someone who does not normally come over to the Finch house, such as the
ladies of the Missionary Circle that Aunt Alexandra invites. For this company, Scout
has to dress up, as well. Scout feels that the situation is too relaxed with Walter,and
it is all right to criticize him about his excessive pouring of the
syrup.
However, Calpurnia knows that doing so is not good
manners. When she calls Walter "company" she implies a different meaning: the boy is
the guest of Scout and, therefore, she should make no remarks about his eating
habits. As punishment, she sends Scout to the kitchen, where the servants ate in the old
days. Humiliated, Scout is grateful that she does not have to face Walter and Jem
again.
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