Treasure Island, Chapter 4 summary
Chapter 4 of 34 · Part 1: The Old Buccaneer · 9 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 4, Jim and his mother return to the inn without defenders, open the dead captain’s chest, and begin counting the money he owes them. The blind beggar’s return and a distant whistle force them to flee with some money and a packet, but his mother collapses near a bridge.
What happens
- Jim and his mother seek help in the hamlet, but the frightened residents refuse to defend the inn.
- They return with a loaded pistol, and Jim finds the chest key hanging around the dead captain’s neck.
- They open the chest and discover gold coins and a wrapped packet beneath clothes and other belongings.
- Jim’s mother counts only her due while the blind beggar returns and tries the bolted door.
- A whistle prompts their escape with some money and the packet as people approach carrying a lantern.
- Jim’s mother collapses, and he drags her partly beneath a bridge close enough to hear the inn.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Jim’s mother’s rule explains the slow counting and her refusal to leave with either too much or too little. That delay increases their danger.
Quick check
Where does Jim find the key to the captain’s chest?
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