Who Henry Thompson is
Henry Thompson is a partner in Babbitt and Thompson, the real estate firm that George F. Babbitt runs in Zenith. He is also Babbitt's father-in-law, so their connection reaches beyond the office. The older and shrewder Thompson belongs to the business world in which Babbitt wants to be admired.
Henry Thompson and the others in the story
Babbitt wants to impress Henry Thompson, making his business partner another person whose good opinion he seeks. This wish fits Babbitt's broader concern with being liked and recognized as a successful man.
George F. Babbitt's relationship with Thompson places family ties alongside the business ambitions that shape so much of his daily life.
Questions
Who is Henry Thompson in Babbitt?
Henry Thompson is George F. Babbitt's older, shrewder business partner and father-in-law.
What business does Henry Thompson share with Babbitt?
They are partners in Babbitt and Thompson, a firm that buys and sells land and houses in Zenith.
Why does Henry Thompson matter to Babbitt?
Babbitt wants to impress him, so Thompson's opinion matters within both their business partnership and their family connection.