David Harum · Chapter
XXXIII explained
On a fine Sunday after church, John Lenox is introduced to the Misses Verjoos by Mr.
What happens
On a fine Sunday after church, John Lenox is introduced to the Misses Verjoos by Mr. Euston. He walks with Clara Verjoos, who teases him about his flattery and mentions her friendship with David Harum. Later, David arrives and jokes with Clara about her horse Kirby. Clara invites John to visit Lakelawn before leaving. David and John drive home together, discussing Clara's charm.
Themes in this chapter
Friendship and Loyalty
David and Miss Clara share a warm, joking friendship, and David speaks highly of her character.
Rural vs. Urban Life
The chapter contrasts the formal church setting with the informal, friendly interactions on the country road.
Characters to notice
- John Lenox
Walks with Miss Clara Verjoos after church, exchanges playful banter, and drives home with David Harum.
- Miss Clara
The younger Miss Verjoos, blue-eyed and smiling, teases John about his compliments and mentions her friendship with David Harum.
- David Harum
Meets John and Miss Clara on the road, jokes about her horse Kirby, and expresses admiration for her.
- Miss Verjoos
The elder Miss Verjoos, with dark eyes and a condescending manner, briefly acknowledges John at church.
- Mr. Euston
The rector who introduces John to the Misses Verjoos and praises his work with the music.
Key passages
“I have been snubbed once this morning.”
I've already been rejected once today.
Miss Clara playfully refers to John's earlier refusal to repeat David's compliment.
“Mr. Harum and I are great ‘neetups,’ as he says. Is ‘neetups’ a nice word?”
Mr. Harum and I are close friends, as he would say. Is 'neetups' a proper term?
Miss Clara uses David's colloquialism to describe their friendship.
“I guess that the consideration in that deal ’d have to be ‘love an’ affection.’”
I suppose the only payment in that transaction would be love and affection.
David suggests that Miss Clara's value cannot be measured in money, only in love.