Our Mutual Friend, Book 4: A Turning, Chapter 14 summary
Book 4: A Turning, Chapter 14 of 68 · 20 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 14, Silas Wegg tries to force payment from Boffin, but Venus exposes their supposed partnership and John Harmon proves that Wegg’s document has no value. Harmon explains that the Boffins freely give him the fortune, and Sloppy carries Wegg away after he rejects Boffin’s offer of two pounds.
What happens
- With the Mounds cleared, Wegg visits Venus, hears of his approaching marriage, and arranges to confront Boffin the next morning.
- At the meeting, Harmon throws away Wegg’s hat, and Sloppy reveals himself as the tireless foreman who torments him.
- Venus announces that he brings Boffin into their secret business early, leaving Wegg without his expected ally.
- Harmon explains that a final will gives everything to Boffin, making Wegg’s earlier document worthless.
- Harmon credits the Boffins with freely giving him the fortune, while Boffin offers Wegg money for another stall.
- Wegg rejects two pounds, and Sloppy carries him outside and drops him into a scavenger’s cart.
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Our Mutual Friend, 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
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 a day.
In this chapter
What to notice
Harmon identifies the true source of his wealth. The fortune comes through Boffin’s free choice, not through the document Wegg uses to threaten him.
Quick check
Why does Wegg’s will fail to give him power over Harmon?
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Our Mutual Friend, 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
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 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
