We have changed our privacy policy. In addition, we use cookies on our website for various purposes. By continuing on our website, you consent to our use of cookies. You can learn about our practices by reading our privacy policy.

Tom Jones Book 8, Chapter 2 Summary

In Which the Landlady Pays a Visit to Mr. Jones

  • Once the lieutenant leaves, Tom can't go back to sleep.
  • He orders up some tea, and the landlady herself brings it to him.
  • The landlady finally gets her first look at Tom.
  • Since the lieutenant has assured her that Tom is a gentleman, she thinks that Tom has money.
  • So she wants to make sure that he is as comfortable and happy as possible.
  • The landlady promises Tom that he's worth much more than all those soldier fellows.
  • Tom mentions the name "Sophia."
  • The landlady answers as though she knows Sophia personally.
  • This is all the encouragement Tom needs.
  • He launches into a long rant about Sophia's perfections and his own grief at ever having caused her pain.
  • And then, Tom goes on about Squire Allworthy and how Tom has disappointed him.
  • He holds out his empty wallet to her as an explanation of his plan to join the army.
  • Tom's sudden explosion of feelings shuts up the landlady for a bit.
  • But she hears what (to her) is the most important part: Tom has been disinherited.
  • So Tom has no money.
  • The landlady flounces out of the room.