Little Lord Fauntleroy · Chapter
II explained
Cedric learns that he is the heir to an earldom and will become Lord Fauntleroy.
What happens
Cedric learns that he is the heir to an earldom and will become Lord Fauntleroy. He struggles with the news, worries about leaving his friend Mr. Hobbs, and discusses the situation with his mother. The lawyer Mr. Havisham arrives to arrange the move to England, and the Earl's harsh terms are revealed, though Mrs. Errol agrees for her son's sake. Cedric begins to see the positive side of his new position after helping a poor woman.
Themes in this chapter
Innocence and Moral Purity
Cedric's innocent concern for his friends and his honest, generous nature contrast with the Earl's bitterness.
Social Class and Aristocracy
The chapter explores the vast divide between Cedric's simple American life and the expectations of British nobility.
Family and Belonging
Cedric's bond with his mother is tested by the Earl's demand for separation, highlighting themes of family loyalty.
Characters to notice
- Cedric Errol
Struggles to understand his new title and worries about leaving his friends, but gradually accepts his fate.
- Mrs. Errol
Sorrowfully agrees to send Cedric to England for his future, despite the Earl's harsh terms.
- Mr. Hobbs
Shocked to learn that Cedric is to become an earl, reacting with disbelief and agitation.
- Mr. Havisham
The family lawyer who delivers the Earl's terms and observes the characters of Cedric and his mother.
- Earl of Dorincourt
Described as a lonely, bitter old man who dislikes America and refuses to see Mrs. Errol.
Key passages
“There was never a more amazed little boy than Cedric during the week that followed; there was never so strange or so unreal a week.”
Cedric was utterly bewildered by the events of the following week, which felt completely surreal.
Describes Cedric's shock upon learning he is heir to an earldom.
“I should rather not be an earl. None of the boys are earls. Can't I not be one?”
Cedric expresses his reluctance to become an earl, noting that none of his peers hold such titles.
Shows Cedric's initial resistance to his new identity.
“You said that you wouldn't have them sitting 'round on your cracker-barrels. ... Mr. Hobbs, one is sitting on this box now!”
Cedric reminds Mr. Hobbs of his earlier disdain for earls, then reveals that he himself is about to become one.
A humorous moment where Cedric breaks the news to his friend.
“It will make a great difference. It will make a great difference.”
Mr. Havisham reflects on the profound impact Cedric's inheritance will have on his life and the estate.
Highlights the significance of Cedric's new role.