Father Henson’s Story of His Own Life · Chapter
Closing Up My London Agency explained
Josiah Henson concludes his agency in London, publishes his narrative, and receives a letter about his wife's critical illness.
What happens
Josiah Henson concludes his agency in London, publishes his narrative, and receives a letter about his wife's critical illness. He immediately returns to Canada, where he is reunited with his family and spends his wife's final weeks by her side before she dies peacefully.
Themes in this chapter
Faith and Religion
Charlotte's Christian faith and calm acceptance of death, and Josiah's reliance on God, are central to the chapter.
Family Separation
The threat of permanent separation from his wife due to distance and illness drives Josiah's urgent return.
Resilience and Survival
Josiah's decision to abandon profitable business for family, and Charlotte's fortitude in facing death, exemplify resilience.
Characters to notice
- Josiah Henson
Narrator and protagonist; closes his London agency, publishes his narrative, and rushes home to his dying wife.
- Charlotte
Josiah's beloved wife; lies at the point of death, reunites with Josiah, and dies peacefully after a few weeks.
- Lord John Russell
Hosted the dinner mentioned in the previous chapter; referenced as part of the timeline context.
Key passages
“I was not long in deciding the question. I will leave my books and stereotype plates, and all my property behind, and go.”
He quickly chose to abandon his publishing venture and all his possessions to return to his dying wife.
Highlights Josiah's prioritization of family over material gain.
“She blessed me, and blessed her children, commending us to the ever watchful care of that Saviour who had sustained her in so many hours of trial; and finally, after kissing me and each one of the children, she passed from earth to heaven without a pang or a groan, as gently as the falling to sleep of an infant on its mother’s breast.”
Charlotte blessed her family, entrusted them to God's care, and died peacefully, like a child falling asleep.
Emphasizes the serene, faith-filled death of Charlotte.