The Mill on the Floss · Chapter
Showing That Tom Had Opened the Oyster explained
Mr.
What happens
Mr. Deane offers Tom a partnership in the firm, acknowledging his business acumen and loyalty. Tom, grateful but driven by a promise to his father, expresses his desire to reclaim the family mill from Wakem. Mr. Deane agrees to consider the possibility, and they part with plans to discuss further after Tom's upcoming business trip.
Themes in this chapter
Family Obligation and Conflict
Tom's primary motivation is fulfilling his father's dying wish to reclaim the mill, showing the weight of family duty even as he advances in his career.
Education and Self-Improvement
Tom's rise from a young applicant to a potential partner exemplifies self-improvement through hard work and business acumen, as praised by Mr. Deane.
Characters to notice
- Tom Tulliver
Tom is offered a partnership in the firm, reflecting his growth and success in business. He reveals his deep attachment to the family mill and his promise to his father.
- Mr. Deane
Mr. Deane praises Tom's business qualities and offers him a share in the firm. He listens thoughtfully to Tom's wish to reclaim the mill and agrees to consider it.
- Mr. Tulliver
Though deceased, Mr. Tulliver's dying wish for Tom to reclaim the mill drives Tom's ambitions and is a central motivation in this chapter.
- Lawyer Wakem
Wakem is mentioned as the current owner of the mill, having outbid Mr. Deane's firm. His management through young Jetsome is causing the mill to decline.
- Luke
Luke, the old miller, is referenced as having reported to Tom that young Jetsome is letting the mill business decline.
Key passages
“It's this steam, you see, that has made the difference; it drives on every wheel double pace, and the wheel of fortune along with 'em”
Steam power accelerates all aspects of life, including fortune and commerce.
Mr. Deane uses this metaphor to explain the rapid changes in business and society.
“I'd give up a much greater chance in life for the sake of having the Mill again—I mean having it in my own hands, and gradually working off the price.”
Tom would sacrifice a better opportunity to own and restore the family mill.
Tom expresses his deep emotional and familial commitment to reclaiming the mill.