Brewster’s Millions · Chapter
The Flight of Jones explained
Monty learns from Grant & Ripley that Swearengen Jones has disappeared with all of his inherited fortune, leaving him penniless.
What happens
Monty learns from Grant & Ripley that Swearengen Jones has disappeared with all of his inherited fortune, leaving him penniless. Despite the shock, Monty resolves to face his future with courage and marry Peggy as planned.
Themes in this chapter
- Wealth and Extravagance
Monty's sudden loss of fortune underscores the fleeting nature of wealth and the absurdity of his previous spending spree.
- Identity and Self-Worth
Monty's resolve to prove his grandfather's blood and start anew highlights his struggle to define himself beyond wealth.
Characters to notice
- Montgomery Brewster
Devastated by the news of Jones's disappearance but resolves to be strong and marry Peggy.
- Grant & Ripley
The lawyers inform Monty of Jones's flight and the loss of his fortune, expressing their support.
- Swearengen Jones
Has disappeared with Monty's fortune, believed to have fled or been murdered by his secretary.
Key passages
“Everything seemed like a dream to Brewster as he rushed off through the night to the office of Grant & Ripley.”
Monty felt as if he were in a dream as he hurried through the night to the lawyers' office.
Sets the surreal tone of the chapter as Monty confronts the crisis.
“I am going to buckle down to the real thing. I am going to prove that my grandfather’s blood is in me. And I shall come out on top.”
I will focus on what truly matters and show that I have my grandfather's strength. I will succeed.
Monty's declaration of resilience after losing his fortune.