# Chapter III explained — The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling

> Chapter companion for The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling by Henry Fielding.

## What happens

Mr. Allworthy returns home after a long absence in London and discovers a foundling infant in his bed. He instructs Mrs. Deborah Wilkins to care for the child, despite her harsh objections and suggestions to abandon it. Allworthy's compassion prevails, and he orders the child to be properly looked after.

## Themes in this chapter

### Benevolence and Generosity

Allworthy's immediate compassion for the foundling and his orders to provide for it exemplify his benevolent nature.

### Hypocrisy vs. True Virtue

Mrs. Deborah Wilkins's initial harshness and concern for appearances contrast with Allworthy's genuine kindness.

## Character check-ins

### Squire Allworthy

Returns home after a quarter-year in London, discovers an infant in his bed, and shows compassion by ordering care for the child.

### Mrs. Deborah Wilkins

Summoned by Allworthy, she initially reacts with horror and suggests harsh punishment for the mother and abandonment of the child, but ultimately obeys her master's orders.

## Key lines

> He stood some time lost in astonishment at this sight; but, as good nature had always the ascendant in his mind, he soon began to be touched with sentiments of compassion for the little wretch before him.

He was initially stunned, but his innate kindness quickly led him to feel pity for the helpless infant.

_Highlights Allworthy's compassionate response to the foundling._

> I would have it put in a basket, and sent out and laid at the churchwarden’s door. It is a good night, only a little rainy and windy; and if it was well wrapped up, and put in a warm basket, it is two to one but it lives till it is found in the morning.

She suggested abandoning the baby at the churchwarden's door, rationalizing that it might survive the night if properly wrapped.

_Illustrates Mrs. Deborah's callous and pragmatic view of the foundling._

## Links

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