David Harum · Chapter
XVIII explained
John Lenox grapples with his conscience after learning of David Harum's scheme involving the Widow Cullom.
What happens
John Lenox grapples with his conscience after learning of David Harum's scheme involving the Widow Cullom. Despite his favorable impressions of David, John is troubled by the heartlessness of the plan. His internal conflict is interrupted when Mrs. Cullom arrives at the bank, soaked and freezing. John fetches dry clothes and whisky from Mrs. Bixbee, and David arrives, having been delayed by a colt's injury. The chapter ends with John waiting uncomfortably as David prepares to discuss business with Mrs. Cullom.
Themes in this chapter
Horse Trading and Moral Ambiguity
David defends the unique ethics of horse trading, distinguishing it from ordinary business, and John grapples with the morality of the Widow Cullom scheme.
Character and Reputation
John's internal conflict reflects his struggle to reconcile David's kindness with the cruel plan, questioning David's true character.
Characters to notice
- John Lenox
Struggles with his conscience over David's scheme, assists Mrs. Cullom, and feels conflicted about his role.
- David Harum
Defends horse-trading ethics, reveals his scheme to John, and is delayed by a colt's injury before attending to Mrs. Cullom.
- Mrs. Cullom
Arrives at the bank in a pitiable state, wet and trembling from the cold, and is cared for by John and Mrs. Bixbee.
- Aunt Polly
Provides dry clothes, a shawl, and whisky for Mrs. Cullom, though she is discreet about the whisky's presence in the house.
- Deakin Perkins
Mentioned by David as an example of a church member who is sharp in horse-trading.
Key passages
“A hoss-trade ain't like anythin' else. A feller may be straighter 'n a string in ev'rythin' else, an' never tell the truth—that is, the hull truth—about a hoss.”
Horse trading is unique; a person can be completely honest in all other matters but still not tell the whole truth about a horse.
David explains the special moral code of horse trading to John.
“Consarn a hoss, anyhow! If they're wuth anythin' they're more bother 'n a teethin' baby.”
Horses are more trouble than a teething baby if they're worth anything.
David complains about the difficulties of owning a valuable horse after his colt is injured.