Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, Chapter 42 summary
Chapter 42 of 43 · 14 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 42, Tom Sawyer returns wounded with Jim, who is chained again despite the doctor’s praise, and then reveals that Miss Watson frees Jim in her will. Aunt Polly arrives, confirms Jim’s freedom, exposes Huck Finn and Tom’s assumed identities, and discovers that Tom hides her letters to preserve their deception.
What happens
- Tom returns on a mattress with the doctor and Jim, while Huck hides Aunt Polly’s unopened letter.
- The men chain Jim again; the doctor describes how Jim risks his freedom to help nurse Tom.
- Tom wakes and proudly tells Aunt Sally how he and Huck arrange Jim’s escape.
- Learning that Jim is imprisoned again, Tom demands his release and explains Miss Watson’s will.
- Aunt Polly arrives, identifies the boys, and confirms that Jim is free.
- Tom admits keeping Aunt Polly’s earlier letters in his trunk because they threaten the deception.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Tom explains why he engineers an escape despite knowing Jim is free. His pleasure contrasts with Jim’s capture and heavy chains.
Quick check
Why does Tom say Jim has no right to be imprisoned?
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