# Two New Servants explained — Our Mutual Friend

> Chapter companion for Our Mutual Friend by Charles Dickens.

## What happens

Mr. and Mrs. Boffin, overwhelmed by their new wealth, struggle with paperwork. John Rokesmith arrives and is hired as secretary, impressing the Boffins with his efficiency. Mr. Boffin worries about managing Silas Wegg's jealousy and decides to offer him a new position. The chapter ends with Mr. Boffin preparing to make an offer to Wegg.

## Themes in this chapter

### Wealth and Corruption

Mr. Boffin's new wealth brings anxiety and complexity, as he struggles with paperwork and managing his affairs, highlighting the burdens of prosperity.

### Social Class and Mobility

The Boffins' rise from servants to wealthy inheritors is evident in their unfamiliarity with managing money and their hiring of a secretary, reflecting class mobility.

### Identity and Disguise

John Rokesmith's true identity as John Harmon is hidden, and his role as secretary allows him to observe the Boffins and the dust mounds.

## Character check-ins

### Mr. Boffin

Struggling with paperwork and financial management; hires John Rokesmith as secretary; anxious about Silas Wegg's jealousy.

### Mrs. Boffin

Observes Mr. Boffin's difficulties; approves of John Rokesmith; recites poetry given by Silas Wegg.

### John Rokesmith

Hired as secretary; efficiently organizes Mr. Boffin's papers; tours the Bower and shows interest in the dust mounds.

### Silas Wegg

Literary man with a wooden leg; Mr. Boffin fears his jealousy and plans to offer him a new position.

## Key lines

> Mr. and Mrs. Boffin sat after breakfast, in the Bower, a prey to prosperity.

The Boffins were overwhelmed by their new wealth.

_Highlights the theme of wealth and corruption._

> I would keep exact accounts of all the expenditure you sanctioned, Mr. Boffin. I would write your letters, under your direction. I would transact your business with people in your pay or employment.

Rokesmith describes the duties of a secretary: managing accounts, correspondence, and business transactions.

_Defines the role of secretary in Victorian times._

> The man of low cunning had, of course, acquired a mastery over the man of high simplicity.

The cunning Wegg had gained control over the simple Mr. Boffin.

_Illustrates the power dynamic between Wegg and Boffin._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/our_mutual_friend_se/chapters/xv-two-new-servants
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/our_mutual_friend_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/our_mutual_friend_se/chapters