Brewster’s Millions · Chapter
III: Mrs. and Miss Gray explained
Montgomery Brewster visits the Gray home, where he grew up alongside Margaret Gray.
What happens
Montgomery Brewster visits the Gray home, where he grew up alongside Margaret Gray. He attempts to share his newfound wealth with Mrs. Gray and Margaret, but they refuse out of pride. During the visit, Brewster receives a letter from Grant & Ripley informing him of the death of his uncle James T. Sedgwick and naming him as sole heir under certain conditions.
Themes in this chapter
- Friendship and Loyalty
Monty's deep bond with the Gray family is evident as he wishes to share his fortune, and Peggy's refusal is rooted in protecting their relationship.
- Social Class and Status
The Grays' pride and the mortgage on their home highlight the tension between financial need and social standing.
- Identity and Self-Worth
Peggy and Mrs. Gray's refusal of Monty's money underscores their sense of self-worth and independence.
Characters to notice
- Montgomery Brewster
Returns to the Gray home, attempts to offer financial help, and learns of his uncle's death and inheritance.
- Peggy Gray
Greets Monty warmly but firmly refuses his offer of money, citing pride and the hurt it would cause.
- Mrs. Gray
Mentioned as the proud owner of the Fortieth Street home; Monty fears offending her pride by offering money.
- Old Hendrick
The faithful servant sweeping leaves outside the Gray home; exchanges minimal words with Monty.
- James T. Sedgwick
Mentioned as Monty's uncle who has died, leaving a will with conditions.
- Swearengen Jones
Mentioned as the executor of James T. Sedgwick's will in Montana.
Key passages
“I remind myself more of the fatted calf.”
Monty jokes that he feels like the fatted calf, a biblical reference to a celebratory feast, rather than a prodigal son.
Monty uses humor to deflect the awkwardness of his new wealth.
“Don’t—please don’t go on, Monty. I know what you mean. You are good and very thoughtful, Monty, but you really must not.”
Peggy gently but firmly stops Monty from offering money, acknowledging his kindness but refusing the offer.
Peggy's refusal is rooted in pride and a desire to maintain their relationship without financial dependency.
“We are in receipt of a communication from Mr. Swearengen Jones of Montana, conveying the sad intelligence that your uncle, James T. Sedgwick, died on the 24th inst.”
Grant & Ripley inform Monty that his uncle James T. Sedgwick has died and that he is named as heir in the will.
This letter introduces a new inheritance plot twist.
