Little Men, Chapter 16 summary

What happens

1. Mrs. Jo recognizes Dan’s restlessness, permits him to leave if necessary, and gains his promise to give warning.
2. Dan takes charge of town errands and performs them carefully for weeks.
3. After Dan hurts Jack while wrestling, Mr. Bhaer directs his aggressive energy toward splitting tough roots.
4. Dan secretly befriends Prince Charlie and persists through repeated falls until the horse accepts a rider.
5. Silas reports Dan’s success, and Mr. Laurie allows him to help with the horse’s training.
6. Mrs. Jo compares Dan’s progress with Charlie’s taming, and Dan promises that neither of them runs away.

In this chapter

What to notice

Mrs. Jo offers freedom while affirming that Dan matters to her. Her trust weakens his urge to leave and encourages an honest promise.

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