Little Lord Fauntleroy · Chapter
III explained
Cedric, now aware of his new status as Lord Fauntleroy, uses his newfound wealth and influence to help those he cares about before leaving for England.
What happens
Cedric, now aware of his new status as Lord Fauntleroy, uses his newfound wealth and influence to help those he cares about before leaving for England. He visits Dick the bootblack, buying him out of his partnership with Jake and setting him up with a new business, and also generously provides for the apple-woman. He gives Mr. Hobbs a gold watch as a parting gift. The chapter ends with an emotional departure as Cedric, his mother, and Mr. Havisham board the steamer, and Dick arrives just in time to give Cedric a red silk handkerchief as a farewell gift.
Themes in this chapter
Wealth and Generosity
Cedric uses his newfound wealth to help Dick and the apple-woman, demonstrating that his character remains generous and kind despite his elevated status.
Family and Belonging
The emotional departure from his home and the close bond between Cedric and his mother highlight themes of family and the sense of belonging as they leave for a new life.
Characters to notice
- Cedric Errol
Cedric uses his new wealth to help Dick and the apple-woman, showing his generous and kind nature. He also gives Mr. Hobbs a gold watch and says an emotional goodbye before sailing to England.
- Mr. Havisham
Mr. Havisham accompanies Cedric on his errands, observing his simple and direct manner of giving, and is amused by his actions.
- Dick
Dick is overwhelmed by Cedric's generosity, which allows him to buy out Jake and own his business. He gives Cedric a red silk handkerchief as a farewell gift at the dock.
- Mr. Hobbs
Mr. Hobbs is deeply moved by Cedric's parting gift of a gold watch and struggles with his emotions, agreeing to visit if invited by the Earl.
- Mrs. Errol
Mrs. Errol is emotional about leaving their home, but comforts Cedric and accompanies him on the voyage to England.
Key passages
“For I have to go to England and be a lord," explained Cedric, sweet-temperedly. "And I shouldn't like to have your bones on my mind every time it rained.”
Cedric kindly tells the apple-woman that he is going to England to become a lord and doesn't want to worry about her suffering in the rain.
Cedric's concern for the apple-woman's well-being shows his compassionate nature.
“I wish ye wasn't goin' away," he said in a husky voice. Then he winked his eyes again.”
Dick, with a choked voice, expresses his sadness that Cedric is leaving.
Dick's emotional reaction underscores the deep friendship between him and Cedric.