David Harum · Chapter
XXIII explained
John Lenox moves into David Harum's house on Christmas day, where he finds a warm, comfortable room prepared by Aunt Polly (Mrs.
What happens
John Lenox moves into David Harum's house on Christmas day, where he finds a warm, comfortable room prepared by Aunt Polly (Mrs. Bixbee). He joins David, Aunt Polly, and Mrs. Cullom for a lavish Christmas dinner, contrasting sharply with his previous miserable living conditions at the Eagle tavern. John feels deep gratitude and happiness for the kindness shown to him.
Themes in this chapter
Friendship and Loyalty
David and Aunt Polly's kindness in preparing a home for John exemplifies deep loyalty and friendship.
Social Class and Community
John's transition from the squalid Eagle tavern to David's comfortable home highlights contrasts in social standing and community care.
Family and Kinship
The Christmas dinner brings together David, Aunt Polly, Mrs. Cullom, and John, creating a surrogate family bond.
Characters to notice
- John Lenox
Moves into David's house, enjoys a Christmas dinner, and expresses gratitude to Aunt Polly.
- David Harum
Hosts the Christmas dinner, carves the turkey, and jokes with the household.
- Aunt Polly
Welcomes John, shows him to his room, and is touched by his request for a Christmas kiss.
- Mrs. Bixbee
Apologizes for answering the door herself, shows John to his room, and later wears a diamond gift from David.
- Mrs. Cullom
Dines at David's table, transformed by Aunt Polly's care, and appears happy.
Key passages
“I don't know what to say, nor how to thank you properly. I don't believe you know how kind this is.”
John expresses his overwhelming gratitude to Aunt Polly for her kindness.
John is moved by the thoughtful preparation of his room.
“Little too much is jest right.”
David believes that a generous portion is the correct amount.
David's philosophy on serving food reflects his generous nature.
“I told David that I was ever so much obliged to him, but I didn't want a dimun' more'n a cat wanted a flag, an' I thought it was jest throwin' away money.”
Aunt Polly says she thanked David for the diamond but feels it is unnecessary and extravagant.
Aunt Polly's practical and humble character is shown.