# A Speculator explained — Hester

> Chapter companion for Hester by Margaret Oliphant.

## What happens

Edward Vernon, driven by ambition and a desire for financial independence, contemplates a risky speculation that would involve using funds entrusted to him, including those belonging to Catherine Vernon. He discusses the plan with Roland Ashton and Harry Vernon, who both advise caution, but Edward dismisses their concerns, believing himself superior and determined to proceed. Meanwhile, Catherine senses Edward's growing distance and feels a pang of maternal pain as he fails to bid her goodnight, while Hester remains at home with her mother, reflecting on her own choices.

## Themes in this chapter

### Wealth and Morality

Edward's willingness to risk other people's money for personal gain raises questions about the moral implications of wealth and speculation.

### Deception and Secrecy

Edward's secretive preparations and his intention to conceal his actions from Catherine highlight the theme of deception.

### Family and Obligation

The tension between Edward's ambitions and his obligations to Catherine and the family trust underscores the conflict between personal desire and familial duty.

## Character check-ins

### Edward Vernon

Contemplates a risky speculation, dismisses advice from Roland and Harry, and feels superior to his cousins. He is secretive and determined to proceed despite the risks.

### Roland Ashton

Advises Edward against the speculation, warning him not to risk other people's money. He is cautious and tries to dissuade Edward.

### Harry Vernon

Expresses concern about the dangers of speculation, citing past losses. He is steadfast and cautious, urging consideration of others.

### Catherine Vernon

Feels hurt by Edward's neglect and growing distance. She reflects on her role as a surrogate mother and worries about his choices.

### Hester Vernon

Remains at home with her mother, declining to attend the dance. She is thoughtful and dreamy, half-listening to her mother's monologue.

### John Vernon

Mentions John Vernon as a cautionary example of foolishness and extravagance, though he is not present in the scene.

## Key lines

> “It wouldn’t console anybody who was injured, that you ruined yourself first of all,” he said. “Nor would it comfort me for the loss of a fortune that other people had rejected it,” cried Edward with an angry smile.

Harry argues that self-ruin doesn't excuse harming others, while Edward retorts that losing a fortune others had spurned would be no comfort.

_Highlights the ethical divide between Edward and Harry regarding risk and responsibility._

> She was like a mother who is beginning to discover that she is of no particular consequence in the economy of her child’s life.

Catherine feels the pain of realizing she is becoming irrelevant to Edward, much like a mother whose child no longer needs her.

_Emphasizes Catherine's emotional vulnerability and the shifting dynamics in her relationship with Edward._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/hester_se/chapters/xxxii-a-speculator
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/hester_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/hester_se/chapters