Leave It to Psmith · Chapter
V explained
Freddie Threepwood asks his father, Lord Emsworth, for permission to go to London, claiming a dental appointment.
What happens
Freddie Threepwood asks his father, Lord Emsworth, for permission to go to London, claiming a dental appointment. Lord Emsworth reluctantly agrees on condition that Freddie returns on the twelve-fifty train, then resumes his argument with McAllister.
Themes in this chapter
Social Class and Wealth
Lord Emsworth's authority over Freddie's movements and the casual mention of a London dentist reflect the privileges and constraints of the upper class.
Characters to notice
- Freddie Threepwood
Asks Lord Emsworth for permission to go to London, citing a dental appointment.
- Lord Emsworth
Reluctantly allows Freddie to go to London but insists he return on the twelve-fifty train; then returns to arguing with McAllister.
- Angus McAllister
Lord Emsworth's argument with him is interrupted by Freddie's request.
Key passages
“I say, guv’nor, do you think I might go up to town with you this afternoon?”
Freddie asks his father if he can accompany him to London that afternoon.
Freddie's request to go to London is the central action of the chapter.
“But on one thing I insist, Frederick. I cannot have you loafing about London the whole day. You must catch the twelve-fifty train back.”
Lord Emsworth agrees but insists Freddie return on the midday train.
Lord Emsworth sets a condition for Freddie's trip.