# IV: Bob explained — The Voyages of Doctor Dolittle

> Chapter companion for The Voyages of Doctor Dolittle by Hugh Lofting.

## What happens

Tommy and Doctor Dolittle visit Luke the Hermit in jail before his trial for killing a man. The Doctor enlists the help of Bob the bulldog, who witnessed the incident, and plans to use a novel approach in court to defend Luke. The town is in a state of excitement over the trial.

## Themes in this chapter

### Kindness and Compassion

Doctor Dolittle shows compassion by visiting Luke in prison and trying to cheer him up despite the grim circumstances.

### Friendship and Loyalty

Bob the bulldog remains loyal to Luke, speaking well of him and cooperating with the Doctor's plan to help.

## Character check-ins

### Doctor Dolittle

Visits Luke in prison, tries to cheer him up, and enlists Bob's help for the trial.

### Tommy Stubbins

Accompanies the Doctor to the jail and courtroom, observing the proceedings.

### Luke the Hermit

Imprisoned and awaiting trial for killing a man; expresses resignation and relief that his hiding is over.

### Bob

The bulldog who witnessed the incident; the Doctor instructs him to behave and answer questions truthfully.

### Dab-Dab

Upset that they are leaving without lunch, she makes them take cold pork pies.

## Key lines

> In a way I’m glad it’s over. I never got any peace, always thinking they were after me—afraid to speak to anyone. They were bound to get me in the end—Yes, I’m glad it’s over.

Luke expresses a sense of relief that his long period of hiding and fear has ended, even though he faces trial.

_Luke's resignation and acceptance of his fate._

> Now listen, Bob: I want you to stay with me when I go into the courtroom. And whatever I tell you to do, do it. Do you understand? Don’t make any scenes. Don’t bite anybody, no matter what they may say about Luke. Just behave perfectly quietly and answer any question I may ask you—truthfully.

Doctor Dolittle instructs Bob to remain calm and obedient in court, emphasizing the importance of not causing disruptions.

_The Doctor's strategic planning for the trial using Bob as a witness._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_voyages_of_doctor_dolittle_se/chapters/part-ii-iv-bob
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_voyages_of_doctor_dolittle_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_voyages_of_doctor_dolittle_se/chapters