David Harum · Chapter
XLIV explained
John Lenox falls seriously ill with a persistent cough and languid condition, prompting concern from David Harum and Dr.
What happens
John Lenox falls seriously ill with a persistent cough and languid condition, prompting concern from David Harum and Dr. Hayes. David insists John must leave Homeville for a change of climate, and offers to handle John's property affairs, including a potential oil lease, while he is away. David also mentions hiring Chet Timson to help at the bank during John's absence.
Themes in this chapter
Friendship and Loyalty
David's deep concern for John's health and his willingness to take over John's business affairs demonstrate the strength of their friendship and loyalty.
Ambition and Contentment
John's listlessness and lack of interest in business contrast with David's proactive, ambitious approach to managing the oil property and bank.
Characters to notice
- David Harum
Shows deep concern for John's health, insists he take a leave, and offers to manage John's property and oil lease negotiations.
- John Lenox
Suffers from a severe cough and listlessness; reluctantly agrees to David's plan to leave Homeville for his health.
- Aunt Polly
Presses homemade remedies on John and tries to tempt his appetite with her cooking.
- Doc Hayes
Diagnoses John with influenza/grip and recommends a change of climate; discusses John's condition with David.
- Chet Timson
Mentioned as available to help at the bank while John is away; David has received a letter from him.
- Peleg Hopkins
Appears briefly to ask John a question at the teller's counter; David inquires about his competence.
Key passages
“What's the matter with him, Doc? ... He don't seem to take no more int'rist than a foundered hoss. Can't ye do nothin' for him?”
David asks the doctor why John is so apathetic and whether anything can be done.
David's concern for John's lack of energy and interest.
“Ought to clear out somewhere ... Don't like that cough myself.”
The doctor advises that John should leave for a change of climate because his cough is worrying.
Medical recommendation for John's recovery.
“You're goin' somewhere right off, quick 's you c'n git ready, an' you may 's well be makin' up your mind where.”
David insists that John must leave immediately for his health and should decide on a destination.
David's firm decision to send John away for a rest.