Fred Gross Stories · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for Fred Gross Stories by Ring Lardner.
Chapter 1
Own Your Own Home
Fred A. Gross writes to his brother Charley about his and Grace's decision to buy a lot and build a house in the suburbs, detailing their financial plans, the bank loan process, and their excitement about the new home.
Chapter 2
Welcome to Our City
Fred and Grace Gross are settling into their new home in Allison, Illinois. Fred writes to his brother Charley about paying the first interest on their loan, the ongoing issues with the new house (dampness, paint smell, basement flooding), and their initial attempts to socialize with neighbors. Grace's first round of calls includes a visit to the Hamiltons, which goes awkwardly when Mr. Hamilton mistakes her for a detective due to Fred's calling cards. Later, after a disappointing birthday when her father sends a receipt instead of a check, and a failed attempt to sell the house, the Grosses decide to stay in Allison. Their social life improves as the Carrys and Curtises visit, and they plan to go to the Curtises' home for dancing.
Chapter 3
The Last Laugh
Fred Gross writes to his brother Charley about the social life in Allison, the constant parties, and his plan to get back at the snobbish Hamiltons and Carpenters by throwing a party and excluding them. He then devises a scheme to have a deputy sheriff raid the Hamiltons' auction bridge whist club, where the women play for cash prizes, to embarrass them. The plan is executed, but the deputy, Parker, arrives drunk and causes a scene, nearly resulting in a bad mix-up.
Chapter 4
Uncivil War
Fred Gross writes to his brother Charley about his ongoing feud with the Hamiltons, which escalates with pranks and harassment. He also describes his growing friendship with the Martins, who turn out to be the real instigators of the trouble.
Chapter 5
War Bribes
Fred Gross writes to his brother Charley about his stock market ventures, which are affected by war rumors and newspaper reports. He also details his family's struggles with whooping cough and financial hardship, including a request for a loan that is refused.
Chapter 6
The Swift Six
Fred writes to Brother Charley about his New Year's resolution to save money and pay off the mortgage. He describes his financial discipline, Grace's desire for a piano, and his growing interest in buying a car. He eventually makes a down payment on a Swift Six automobile, but later reflects on the practicality of a piano over a car.
Chapter 7
Fore!
Fred Gross writes to his brother Charley about joining the country club and taking up golf. He describes his initial lessons, his first game, and his growing enthusiasm for the sport, despite the costs. He also recounts a drinking and betting incident with Mr. Thomas and Mr. Carpenter, and his plans to win the president's cup in an upcoming tournament to appease his wife, Grace, who is unhappy about his spending his vacation at the golf club.