# XXIII explained — David Harum

> Chapter companion for David Harum by Edward Noyes Westcott.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/david_harum_se/chapters/xxiii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/david_harum_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/david_harum_se/chapters