The Financier · Chapter
VII explained
Frank Cowperwood, now a young man of twenty, decides to leave the brokerage business to start his own note-brokerage firm, despite an offer of partnership.
What happens
Frank Cowperwood, now a young man of twenty, decides to leave the brokerage business to start his own note-brokerage firm, despite an offer of partnership. His interest in Mrs. Lillian Semple, a widow he met through her late husband, grows into a passionate attraction. He advises her on business matters and calls on her regularly, while his own financial ventures in streetcar stocks and real estate prosper.
Themes in this chapter
Ambition and Success
Cowperwood's decision to leave a secure job and start his own business reflects his driving ambition for financial independence.
Love and Betrayal
Cowperwood's growing passion for Mrs. Semple, a widow, hints at a romantic entanglement that may challenge social conventions.
The Role of Fortune and Crisis
The Panic of 1857 shapes Cowperwood's career choices, while Mr. Semple's untimely death opens the door for Cowperwood's relationship with Lillian.
Characters to notice
- Frank Algernon Cowperwood
Decides to leave brokerage for his own note-brokerage business; grows increasingly attracted to Mrs. Semple.
- Lillian Cowperwood
Recently widowed, she is the object of Cowperwood's growing passion; described as beautiful and conventional.
- Mr. Semple
Lillian's late husband; dies of pneumonia after insisting on going to work despite illness.
- Edward Tighe
Cowperwood's employer who offers him a minor partnership, which Cowperwood declines.
- Arthur Rivers
Cowperwood's other employer; remarks on Cowperwood's shrewdness after he leaves.
Key passages
“Gambling in stocks, according to conditions produced by this panic, seemed very hazardous.”
Stock trading during the panic appeared too risky.
Cowperwood's view of stock market speculation as dangerous.
“I think you have a nice business, but I want to get in the note-brokerage business for myself.”
Cowperwood declines a partnership, preferring to start his own note-brokerage firm.
Cowperwood's decision to pursue independence.
“He was seized with a cold in the chest late in the fall... nine more days of pneumonia—and he was dead.”
Mr. Semple died of pneumonia after ignoring his illness.
The sudden death that leaves Lillian a widow.