Hard Times, Book 3: Reaping, Chapter 2 summary
Book 3: Reaping, Chapter 2 of 37 · 14 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 2, James Harthouse searches unsuccessfully for Mrs. Bounderby until Sissy Jupe visits his hotel and tells him that she is at her father’s house. Acting without instructions, Sissy persuades him to leave Coketown permanently, and he departs by train, feeling defeated rather than morally relieved.
What happens
- Harthouse waits anxiously for news, visits the country house and town, and learns nothing useful from Tom.
- Sissy visits his hotel and explains that Mrs. Bounderby reaches her father’s house in distress and remains unconscious overnight.
- Sissy insists that Harthouse has no hope of seeing Mrs. Bounderby again, although she carries no message from her.
- Harthouse admits responsibility but claims that he causes harm without deliberately intending it.
- Sissy demands his immediate, permanent departure, and her firm sincerity overcomes his objections about public business and appearing ridiculous.
- Harthouse writes departure notes and leaves Coketown by train, ashamed of his defeat rather than comforted by making amends.
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Les Temps difficiles, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Commencez 90 jours gratuitsNothing to pay today. 0,14 USD a day in the first year, then 0,27 USD a day.
In this chapter
What to notice
Sissy grounds her intervention in mutual affection rather than formal authority. This explains the force behind her demand that Harthouse leave.
Quick check
What authority does Sissy claim for asking Harthouse to leave?
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Les Temps difficiles, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Commencez 90 jours gratuitsNothing to pay today. 0,14 USD a day in the first year, then 0,27 USD a day.
200,000+ classics to read, hear and hold
15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.
Try 3 months free
