# A Birthday Dinner explained — Brewster’s Millions

> Chapter companion for Brewster’s Millions by George Barr McCutcheon.

## What happens

Monty Brewster celebrates his 25th birthday with the 'Little Sons of the Rich' at Pettingill's studio. The festivities are interrupted repeatedly by Ellis, his grandfather's servant, who first delivers a birthday check, then news of a heart attack, and finally the death of Edwin Peter Brewster.

## Themes in this chapter

### Wealth and Extravagance

The birthday dinner at Pettingill's studio, with dishes from a French restaurant, highlights the lavish lifestyle of the wealthy young men.

### Family Legacy and Feuds

Monty's relationship with his grandfather, the romantic runaway marriage of his parents, and the inheritance at stake.

### Friendship and Loyalty

The camaraderie among the 'Little Sons of the Rich' as they celebrate Monty's birthday.

## Character check-ins

### Montgomery Brewster

The guest of honor, turning 25, known for his independence and good nature.

### Edwin Peter Brewster

Monty's wealthy grandfather, who dies of a heart attack during the birthday dinner.

### Ellis

The Brewster family servant who delivers the birthday check and the news of Mr. Brewster's death.

### Paul Pettingill

Host of the birthday dinner in his studio.

### Subway Smith

A member of the 'Little Sons of the Rich' who jokes about Monty's grandfather.

### Joe Bragdon

Also called Rip Van Winkle, participates in the singing and jesting.

## Key lines

> A man is known by the street that’s named after him

A person's reputation is reflected in the landmarks named after them.

_Spoken by a new member, nicknamed 'Subway,' commenting on the social status of the group._

> I want to hear Brewster’s speech.

Richard Van Winkle insists on hearing Monty's birthday speech despite interruptions.

_Shows the group's focus on celebrating Monty._

> Mr. Brewster is dead, sir.

Ellis announces the death of Monty's grandfather.

_The climactic revelation that ends the chapter._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/brewster_s_millions_se/chapters/i-a-birthday-dinner
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/brewster_s_millions_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/brewster_s_millions_se/chapters