# Chapter III explained — The Financier

> Chapter companion for The Financier by Theodore Dreiser.

## What happens

Frank Cowperwood, at thirteen, demonstrates early financial acumen by successfully speculating in a soap auction, borrowing money from his father, and selling the soap to a local grocer for a profit. His uncle Seneca Davis arranges for him to start work at Waterman & Co., a grain and commission firm, where Henry Waterman Sr. immediately recognizes his potential.

## Themes in this chapter

### Ambition and Success

Frank's early soap speculation and his drive to enter the business world exemplify his ambition and foreshadow his future success.

### The Role of Fortune and Crisis

Frank's opportunity at Waterman & Co. arises from his uncle's wealth and connections, highlighting how fortune shapes his path.

## Character check-ins

### Frank Algernon Cowperwood

Shows early business savvy by buying and reselling soap at a profit; secures a position at Waterman & Co. through his uncle's influence.

### Henry Worthington Cowperwood

Frank's father, a bank teller, lends him money for the soap venture and supports his early business ambitions.

### Uncle Seneca

Arranges Frank's introduction to Waterman & Co., leveraging his wealth and social connections.

### Henry Waterman Sr.

Co-owner of Waterman & Co., impressed by Frank's demeanor and potential, hires him on trial.

### George Waterman

Brother and confidential inside man at Waterman & Co., agrees with Henry's positive assessment of Frank.

### Mr. Dalrymple

Local grocer who agrees to buy the soap from Frank, enabling the young speculator's first profit.

## Key lines

> I like that fellow. There’s something to him. He’s the cleanest, briskest, most alive thing that’s walked in here in many a day.

Henry Waterman Sr. immediately recognizes Frank's exceptional energy and potential after their brief meeting.

_Reflects the instant impression Frank makes on his new employer._

> I want you to loan me thirty-two dollars! Will you?

Frank asks his father for a loan to finance his soap speculation, showing his confidence and initiative.

_Demonstrates Frank's early willingness to take calculated risks._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_financier_se/chapters/iii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_financier_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_financier_se/chapters