Black Beauty, Part 31 summary
Part 31 of 49 · 4 min to read the part
In 31 A Humbug, Alfred Smirk wins Mr. Barry’s approval through politeness and outward grooming while neglecting the horse’s bedding, feet, exercise, and food. A farrier identifies severe thrush and prescribes effective care, but Mr. Barry decides to stop keeping a horse and sells the narrator once his feet recover.
What happens
- Alfred Smirk arrives as groom and makes the horse look smart while neglecting essential care.
- Filthy bedding irritates the horse’s eyes, and Alfred diverts Mr. Barry’s concern toward the drains.
- A bricklayer finds no drainage fault, while damp bedding, little exercise, and unsuitable feeding worsen the horse’s health.
- After the horse stumbles twice, Mr. Barry consults a farrier who diagnoses severe thrush caused by dirty bedding.
- Treatment and cleaner conditions restore the horse’s health, but Mr. Barry gives up horse ownership and sells him.
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What to notice
The horse distinguishes kindness from adequate care. Alfred avoids direct cruelty but still causes suffering through neglect.
Quick check
What does the farrier identify as the cause of the horse’s thrush?
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