# I Make Acquaintance of My Uncle explained — Kidnapped

> Chapter companion for Kidnapped by Robert Louis Stevenson.

## What happens

David Balfour arrives at the House of Shaws and meets his uncle, Ebenezer Balfour, a miserly and suspicious man. Ebenezer reluctantly acknowledges David as his nephew, reads the letter from David's father, and offers him lodging under strict conditions of secrecy. David observes his uncle's strange behavior, including his fear of fire, refusal to provide a light, and locking David in a damp, decaying room. The chapter establishes the tense and mistrustful relationship between the two.

## Themes in this chapter

### Greed and Corruption

Ebenezer's miserly behavior, such as rationing beer and locking up tobacco, illustrates his greed and moral corruption.

### Class and Identity

David's struggle to assert his pride and identity against his uncle's condescension highlights class dynamics and family hierarchy.

## Character check-ins

### David Balfour

Arrives at the House of Shaws, meets his uncle, and experiences disappointment and suspicion.

### Ebenezer Balfour

Revealed as David's miserly and secretive uncle; he locks David in a damp room and forbids him from contacting anyone.

## Key lines

> Go into the kitchen and touch naething

Enter the kitchen and do not touch anything.

_Ebenezer's first command to David, showing his distrust and controlling nature._

> I’m your born uncle, Davie, my man, and you my born nephew.

I am your biological uncle, Davie, and you are my nephew.

_Ebenezer reveals his relationship to David, though his tone remains cold and calculating._

> If ye’re dry ye’ll find water behind the door.

If you are thirsty, there is water behind the door.

_Ebenezer's inhospitable offer of water instead of ale, reflecting his stinginess._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/kidnapped_se/chapters/iii-i-make-acquaintance-of-my-uncle
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/kidnapped_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/kidnapped_se/chapters