David Harum · Chapter
XIII explained
John Lenox meets Chet Timson, the disgruntled former bank clerk, who complains about David Harum's management style and lack of involvement in daily banking operations.
What happens
John Lenox meets Chet Timson, the disgruntled former bank clerk, who complains about David Harum's management style and lack of involvement in daily banking operations. Timson reveals his frustrations and warns John to keep money for a return to New York. Later, John finally meets David Harum in person, observing his distinctive appearance and manner.
Themes in this chapter
Horse Trading and Moral Ambiguity
Chet Timson criticizes David Harum's preference for horse trading over banking, highlighting the moral ambiguity of his business practices.
Character and Reputation
Timson's complaints and warning reveal his own character and foreshadow potential challenges for John's reputation in Homeville.
Characters to notice
- John Lenox
Listens to Chet Timson's grievances and meets David Harum for the first time.
- Chet Timson
The former bank clerk who complains about David Harum and warns John about the job.
- David Harum
Arrives at the bank and is introduced to John Lenox; described in detail.
Key passages
“I’ve ben wonderin’ some,” he said, “pertic’lerly since I see you, how ’twas ’t you wanted to come up here to Homeville. Gen’l Wolsey gin his warrant, an’ so I reckon you hadn’t ben gettin’ into no scrape nor nothin’,””
David Harum expresses curiosity about why John Lenox came to Homeville, noting that General Wolsey's recommendation suggests John is not in trouble.
David's initial suspicion and reliance on General Wolsey's judgment.
“You keep enough laid by to pay your gettin’ back to N’York. You may want it in a hurry,””
Chet Timson advises John to save money for a return trip to New York, implying the job may not last.
Timson's warning reflects his own bitterness and foreshadows potential difficulties.