# The Fifth Wheel explained — Short Fiction

> Chapter companion for Short Fiction by O. Henry.

## What happens

Thomas McQuade, a recently discharged coachman, finds himself in the Bed Line of homeless men on a cold night. He meets a fellow sufferer, and after a series of strange events involving a mysterious benefactor and a spiritualist named Professor Cherubusco, he is reunited with Annie, the Van Smuythe lady's maid, who has been searching for him. The chapter explores themes of deception, social class, and the twists of fate.

## Themes in this chapter

### Deception and Appearance vs. Reality

Professor Cherubusco's spiritualist act and the elaborate ruse to reunite Thomas with his employer highlight the theme of deception.

### Social Class and Wealth

The contrast between the wealthy Van Smuythes and the destitute Bed Liners underscores class divisions.

### Humor and Irony

The ironic twist that the 'professor' is actually a wealthy man playing a role, and Thomas's obliviousness to the situation, adds humor.

## Character check-ins

### Thomas McQuade

Ex-coachman for the Van Smuythe family, discharged for drunkenness, now in the Bed Line.

### Annie Williams

Lady's maid to the Van Smuythes, searches for Thomas and brings him home.

### The Colonel

Mysterious benefactor who rescues Thomas from the cold and later reveals himself as Professor Cherubusco.

### Jacob Spraggins

The Caliph Who Alleviated His Conscience, appears as the wealthy man who orchestrates the reunion.

## Key lines

> No man ever learned to be a drunkard on five-cent whisky.

A person cannot become an alcoholic from drinking cheap, low-quality whiskey.

_The Preacher's theme for the night, emphasizing the progression of addiction._

> By the fifth wheel of the chariot he shall come.

He will arrive by means of an unexpected or unconventional method.

_The Chaldean Chiroscope's prophecy that leads to Thomas's return._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_41_se/chapters/the-fifth-wheel
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_41_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/short_fiction_41_se/chapters