# Chapter XXXVII explained — His Family

> Chapter companion for His Family by Ernest Poole.

## What happens

Deborah consults her father's physician, then informs her family of her decision to marry Allan Baird. The family prepares for the move to the farm, and Roger learns that his business is improving thanks to John's efforts. Deborah and Allan marry in a simple ceremony, and Roger decides not to sell the house, offering it as a wedding gift. The chapter ends with Roger reflecting on the future and the ring he will give Deborah.

## Themes in this chapter

### Family and Generational Change

The chapter focuses on Deborah's marriage, the reconciliation between sisters, and Roger's decision to keep the house for the next generation.

### Love, Marriage, and Women's Roles

Deborah's decision to marry Allan Baird reflects her modern approach to love and marriage, balancing personal happiness with her social commitments.

### Economic Struggle and Class

Roger's business revival through John's scheme and the decision to keep the house highlight economic concerns and class stability.

## Character check-ins

### Deborah Gale

Deborah consults her father's physician, decides to marry Allan Baird, and marries him the next day. She reconciles with her sister Edith and plans to move into the family home.

### Roger Gale

Roger reflects on his 'sermon' to Deborah, learns of John's business success, decides not to sell the house, and offers it as a wedding gift. He also plans to buy Deborah a special ring.

### Allan Baird

Allan marries Deborah in a simple ceremony and discusses the future with Roger, including living in the family home.

### Edith Gale

Edith prepares for the move to the farm with her children and reconciles with Deborah.

### John

John reveals a new business scheme that improves the firm's prospects, leading Roger to offer him a partnership.

### George

George is excited about the move to the farm and is mentioned as part of the family's future plans.

## Key lines

> By George, for a fellow who’s never been in a pulpit I put up a devilish strong appeal.

Roger feels proud of his persuasive speech to Deborah, comparing it to a sermon.

_Roger's self-satisfaction with his argument to Deborah._

> I’ve been over and over all you said. I had a good many ups and downs. But I’m all through now—I’m sure you were right.

Deborah tells Roger she has reconsidered his advice and now agrees with him, feeling relieved and happy.

_Deborah's acceptance of Roger's counsel and her decision to marry._

> If this goes through as I hope it will, I guess you’d better come into the firm.

Roger offers John a partnership in the business if the new scheme succeeds.

_Roger's recognition of John's contribution and his offer of partnership._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/his_family_se/chapters/xxxvii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/his_family_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/his_family_se/chapters