The Four Men · Chapter
The Thirtieth of October 1902 explained
The narrator and Grizzlebeard walk to Brightling, where they meet a Sailor at an inn.
What happens
The narrator and Grizzlebeard walk to Brightling, where they meet a Sailor at an inn. Over breakfast, the narrator tells the story of Squire Fuller of Brightling, a larger-than-life figure who defied Parliament and returned to Sussex. The three then set out together and encounter a poet on the road.
Themes in this chapter
Tradition and Heritage
The story of Fuller of Brightling celebrates Sussex heritage and the defiance of parliamentary corruption, emphasizing local pride and tradition.
Companionship and Friendship
The narrator, Grizzlebeard, and the Sailor form a spontaneous fellowship, sharing breakfast and setting out together.
Pilgrimage and Journey
The group continues their westward walk, with the Sailor joining their aimless but purposeful journey.
Characters to notice
- The Sailor
The narrator joins Grizzlebeard and the Sailor at the inn, tells the story of Fuller, and sets out westward.
- Grizzlebeard
Travels with the narrator, comments on Sussex and the Sailor, and spots the poet on the road.
- Squire Fuller of Brightling
Subject of the narrator's story: a Sussex squire who defied Parliament and returned home in triumph.
- The Poet
Seen on the road ahead; Grizzlebeard suggests making him part of their company.
- George III
Mentioned as the king during Fuller's time as a Knight of the Shire.
Key passages
“good things do not jostle.”
Valuable or worthy things do not compete for attention.
The narrator explains why Brightling is a shrine despite not being the most famous part of Sussex.
“he spent all his great fortune upon the poor of Sussex and of his own parish, bidding them drink deep and eat hearty as being habits the best preservative of life”
Fuller used his wealth to feast the poor, believing that hearty eating and drinking were the best way to live long.
Describes Fuller's generosity and philosophy of life.
“so long as I have money in my pocket I am determined to see the world.”
As long as he has funds, the Sailor intends to travel freely.
The Sailor declares his independent, wandering nature.