Brewster’s Millions · Chapter
The Night Before explained
On the eve of his wedding, Monty Brewster, now penniless after spending his million, takes Peggy Gray for a final night of celebration.
What happens
On the eve of his wedding, Monty Brewster, now penniless after spending his million, takes Peggy Gray for a final night of celebration. They dine quietly and attend a farewell supper at Pettingill's studio with the 'Little Sons' and guests. At midnight, a telegram from Grant & Ripley arrives, revealing that Swearengen Jones has disappeared, shattering Monty's hopes for the second inheritance.
Themes in this chapter
- Friendship and Loyalty
The 'Little Sons' gather for a farewell supper, toasting absent members, while Monty's friends await his return.
- The Absurdity of Wealth
Monty, once a millionaire, is now penniless and cannot afford evening clothes, yet plans a lavish farewell supper.
- Moral Dilemmas and Restrictions
Peggy insists on a quiet dinner to avoid scandal, highlighting the social constraints on their final night.
Characters to notice
- Montgomery Brewster
Penniless and anxious, he spends his last night before the deadline with Peggy, only to receive devastating news of Jones's disappearance.
- Peggy Gray
Excited yet worried, she accompanies Monty on his final spree and senses the gravity of the telegram.
- Swearengen Jones
Mentioned as having disappeared, leaving Monty's fate uncertain.
- Nopper Harrison
The only absent 'Little Son,' toasted by Brewster during the supper.
- Paul Pettingill
Hosts the farewell supper for the 'Little Sons' at his studio.
- Joe Bragdon
Present at the supper, jests about Monty's wedding and birthday.
Key passages
“It's all up to Jones now”
Monty's fate depends entirely on Swearengen Jones's decision.
Monty's internal anxiety as he drives to meet Peggy.
“Jones has disappeared and there is absolutely no trace of him.”
Swearengen Jones has vanished without a clue.
The devastating telegram from Grant & Ripley that shatters Monty's hopes.
