Brewster’s Millions · Chapter
The Prodigal's Return explained
Monty and his party return to New York after a disastrous yacht cruise, facing financial ruin and social scorn.
What happens
Monty and his party return to New York after a disastrous yacht cruise, facing financial ruin and social scorn. He sells his belongings, pays off debts, and prepares for the final collapse of his fortune, while clinging to hope from Peggy's affection.
Themes in this chapter
- Wealth and Extravagance
Monty's final spending spree in England and New York, including subsidizing a hotel for a week and selling all his possessions, epitomizes the absurdity of his challenge.
- Friendship and Loyalty
Bragdon and the 'Little Sons of the Rich' stand by Monty, while Dan DeMille offers money and employment, contrasting with fair-weather friends who snub him.
- Love and Sacrifice
Monty's hope is sustained by Peggy's silent affection, and he avoids visiting Mrs. Gray out of shame, showing love intertwined with personal sacrifice.
Characters to notice
- Montgomery Brewster
Returns to New York nearly penniless, haggard and despairing, but determined to complete the spending challenge.
- Peggy Gray
Grieving over Monty's situation, her happiness and vivacity puzzle him, but he cherishes hope from her actions during the storm.
- Swearengen Jones
Remains silent and unreachable, with no word or assurance about Monty's progress.
- Joe Bragdon
Left to repair the Flitter and arrange its return; later lives with Monty in a small hotel and steals the Boston terriers at Monty's request.
- Elon Gardner
Helps Monty settle accounts after the cruise, lamenting the extravagance and the near-total loss of fortune.
- Mrs. Dan DeMille
Tactfully arranges the division of the party for the two sailings and chaperones the first group.
Key passages
“The price was fifty thousand dollars, and the young man believed more than ever that everything was ruled by a wise Providence, which had not deserted him.”
Monty paid $50,000 for the tow and felt that divine providence was still on his side.
Highlights Monty's irrational optimism despite financial ruin.
“He was still game, and he prepared for the final plunge with grim determination.”
Monty remained resolute and steeled himself for the last stage of his spending spree.
Shows Monty's stubborn commitment to the challenge.
“The doggedness of despair kept him up, but the strain that pulled down on him was so relentless that the struggle was losing its equality.”
Desperation gave him the strength to continue, but the constant pressure was overwhelming him.
Captures Monty's mental and emotional exhaustion.
