# XXXI explained — David Harum > Chapter companion for David Harum by Edward Noyes Westcott. ## What happens John Lenox adjusts to his new life in Homeville over the course of a year, finding solace in music and forming a close bond with David Harum and Aunt Polly. David proudly recounts to Dick Larrabee how John skillfully handled a dangerous driving situation with the brown colts, praising his competence and character. ## Themes in this chapter ### Friendship and Loyalty David's pride in John's abilities and his generous, trusting nature underscore the deepening friendship between the two men. ### Rural vs. Urban Life John's gradual adjustment to small-town life, including his acceptance of a simpler existence and the possibility of marrying a 'village maiden,' highlights the contrast with his urban past. ## Character check-ins ### John Lenox Reflects on the past year, his lost love, and his adjustment to life in Homeville; acquires a piano and enjoys Sunday evening music with David and Aunt Polly. ### David Harum Declines to discuss John's contribution to household expenses; praises John's driving skill and musical ability to Dick Larrabee. ### Aunt Polly Approves the piano, sings hymns with John, and enjoys Sunday evening concerts. ### Mrs. Bixbee Compromises with John on a weekly sum for household expenses, though she is ashamed to accept it. ### Dick Larrabee Listens to David's story about John's driving and shares in the praise. ## Key lines > The year that had passed had seemed a very long one to John, but as the months came and went he had in a measure adjusted himself to the change in his fortunes and environment; and so as time went on the poignancy of his sorrow and regret diminished, as it does with all of us. John felt the past year dragged on, but gradually he adapted to his new circumstances, and his grief faded with time, as everyone's does. _Describes John's emotional healing and adjustment to his new life._ > I don't believe that the's any dum thing that feller can't do. The last thing 's a piany. He's got a little one that stands up on it's hind legs in his room, an' he c'n play it with both hands 'thout lookin' on. David declares that John can do anything, even play the piano skillfully without looking at the keys. _David's admiration for John's versatility and talent._ ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/david_harum_se/chapters/xxxi - Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/david_harum_se - All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/david_harum_se/chapters