The Prince and the Pauper, Chapter 28 summary
Chapter 28 of 33 · 5 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 28, Miles Hendon receives a sentence of two hours in the stocks, then accepts a whipping to spare Edward the same humiliation. His courage silences the hostile crowd, and the grateful king names him an earl, an honor Hendon values for its affection rather than its apparent reality.
What happens
- The court rejects Hendon’s claims to his inheritance and sentences him to two hours in the stocks.
- Edward sees the crowd abuse Hendon and demands his release, prompting an officer to order the boy whipped.
- Hendon offers to take Edward’s punishment, and Sir Hugh orders twelve strokes while threatening extra blows if Edward protests.
- Hendon bears the whipping without crying out, and the crowd’s jeering gives way to silence.
- Edward privately makes Hendon an earl, and Hendon treasures the affection behind what he considers an imaginary honor.
- After Sir Hugh leaves, the crowd knocks down and expels a newcomer who tries to abuse Hendon.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Hendon chooses suffering to protect Edward. This act prompts the king’s gratitude and changes the crowd’s treatment of the prisoner.
Quick check
Why does the crowd stop mocking Hendon?
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