# VII explained — A Hazard of New Fortunes

> Chapter companion for A Hazard of New Fortunes by William Dean Howells.

## What happens

The Marches arrive in New York and check into a familiar hotel downtown. Mrs. March is frustrated with Fulkerson's flat suggestions, but after settling in, they begin their search for a furnished apartment with specific requirements. Fulkerson visits them at the hotel, offering new leads, and Mrs. March feels optimistic about their prospects.

## Themes in this chapter

### Urban vs. Rural Life

The Marches' transition from Boston to New York highlights the challenges and allure of urban living, including the search for suitable housing in a bustling city.

### Family and Generational Conflict

The Marches discuss leaving their children behind in Boston, reflecting the tensions between family responsibilities and personal or professional moves.

## Character check-ins

### Basil March

Arrives in New York with his wife, discusses house-hunting frustrations, and interacts with Fulkerson at the hotel.

### Mrs. March

Leads the apartment search, expresses disappointment with Fulkerson's earlier suggestions, and later appreciates his help.

### Fulkerson

Visits the Marches at their hotel, provides new apartment leads, and discusses his work on the magazine.

## Key lines

> Well, I must say I have completely lost confidence in Mr. Fulkerson's judgment. Anything more utterly different from what I told him we wanted I couldn't imagine.

Mrs. March expresses her disappointment with Fulkerson's flat suggestions, feeling they completely ignored her requirements.

_Highlights Mrs. March's frustration and her initial distrust of Fulkerson's judgment regarding housing._

> Oh, why can't we always stay here, just we two!

Mrs. March wishes they could remain indefinitely in the hotel, enjoying its peace and simplicity without family obligations.

_Reflects the Marches' desire for a carefree, transient lifestyle away from domestic responsibilities._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/a_hazard_of_new_fortunes_se/chapters/part-first-vii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/a_hazard_of_new_fortunes_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/a_hazard_of_new_fortunes_se/chapters