# In Which the Orphan Makes His Will explained — Our Mutual Friend

> Chapter companion for Our Mutual Friend by Charles Dickens.

## What happens

John Rokesmith learns from Sloppy that Johnny, the orphan, is gravely ill. He and Mrs. Boffin arrange for Johnny to be moved to a Children's Hospital, where the child, surrounded by toys and care, bequeaths his possessions and dies peacefully.

## Themes in this chapter

### Death and Mortality

Johnny's illness and death are central to the chapter, exploring the fragility of life and the innocence of a child facing death.

### Charity and Hypocrisy

The Boffins' genuine care for Johnny contrasts with the societal neglect that led to his delayed treatment, highlighting true charity versus systemic hypocrisy.

## Character check-ins

### John Rokesmith

Acts as the Secretary, arranges Johnny's transfer to the Children's Hospital, and stays with him at the end.

### Sloppy

Brings news of Johnny's illness, describes his symptoms, and later helps transport Johnny to the hospital.

### Mr. Boffin

Not directly present, but Mrs. Boffin acts on his behalf; the Boffins are deeply concerned for Johnny.

### Bella Wilfer

Present with Mrs. Boffin when Sloppy arrives; Johnny asks for a kiss for the 'boofer lady' (Bella).

### Betty Higden

Johnny's devoted caretaker, who reluctantly agrees to let him be moved to the hospital.

## Key lines

> This should have been days ago. Too late!

The doctor indicates that Johnny's illness could have been treated if addressed earlier, but now it is too late to save him.

_Reflects the tragic consequence of delayed medical care._

> A kiss for the boofer lady.

Johnny asks for a kiss to be given to the beautiful lady (Bella Wilfer) as his final bequest.

_Johnny's last words show his innocent affection and his act of 'making his will' by giving away his possessions._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/our_mutual_friend_se/chapters/ix-in-which-the-orphan-makes-his-will
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/our_mutual_friend_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/our_mutual_friend_se/chapters