A Hazard of New Fortunes · Chapter
VII explained
March faces a moral crisis when Dryfoos demands he fire Lindau from the magazine.
What happens
March faces a moral crisis when Dryfoos demands he fire Lindau from the magazine. March refuses, asserting his editorial independence, and resigns when Fulkerson hesitates to support him. The chapter explores the conflict between principle and economic security.
Themes in this chapter
Labor and Social Justice
Lindau's radicalism and Dryfoos's hostility highlight the clash between labor advocacy and capitalist authority.
Capitalism and Moral Compromise
March's resignation over a matter of principle versus economic necessity illustrates the moral compromises demanded by capitalism.
Characters to notice
- Basil March
Stands on principle, refuses to fire Lindau, and resigns from his position despite the risk to his family's security.
- Fulkerson
Attempts to mediate between March and Dryfoos, but ultimately prioritizes Dryfoos's ownership over March's principles.
- Mr. Dryfoos
Demands that March fire Lindau, revealing his hostility toward labor agitators and his authoritarian view of his role as owner.
- Conrad Dryfoos
Expresses sympathy with Lindau's radical Christian views, causing tension with his father and March.
- Mr. Lindau
Though not present, his principles and past actions are the central point of conflict, defended by March and Conrad.
Key passages
“He doesn't own me , said March, rising. He has made the little mistake of speaking to me as if he did; and when you bring me his apologies, or come to say that, having failed to make him understand they were necessary, you are prepared to stand by me, I will come back to this desk. Otherwise my resignation is at your service.”
March declares that Dryfoos does not own him, and insists that he will only return to work if Dryfoos apologizes or Fulkerson supports him; otherwise, he resigns.
March asserts his independence and moral stance against Dryfoos's authoritarian demand.
“I don't care who owns the thing, said March. My negotiations were with you alone from the beginning, and I leave this matter with you. What do you wish done about Lindau?”
March tells Fulkerson that he only recognizes Fulkerson as his employer and asks for his decision regarding Lindau's employment.
March refuses to accept orders from Dryfoos directly, insisting on dealing only with Fulkerson.