What Will He Do with It? — Volume 04

"What Will He Do with It? — Volume 04" by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton is a novel likely written in the mid-19th century. This installment continues to explore the intricacies of human emotion, pride, and societal perceptions through the lens of its main character, Josiah Hartopp, the Mayor of Gatesboro'. The book delves into his internal struggle after he is metaphorically "taken in," evoking themes of humiliation and the consequences of one's standing in the community. The opening of the volume introduces Mr. Hartopp in a state of distress, reflecting on a recent humiliation that has led to a collective sorrow among those around him. His inner turmoil reaches a climax when he learns that his precious daughter, Sophy, has been taken away, leaving him powerless and enraged. Meanwhile, the character of Waife, Sophy's protector, enters with distress over losing her. This powerful emotional backdrop sets the stage for a series of interactions between Hartopp and Waife, as they navigate their respective places in society while grappling with personal loss. The tension escalates as different motivations surface, particularly regarding Waife's desperation to reclaim Sophy, leading to broader implications for the other characters entwined in their fates. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Edward George Earle Lytton Bulwer-Lytton, 1st Baron Lytton,, was an English writer and politician. He served as a Whig member of Parliament from 1831 to 1841 and a Conservative from 1851 to 1866. He was Secretary of State for the Colonies from June 1858 to June 1859, choosing Richard Clement Moody as founder of British Columbia. He was created Baron Lytton of Knebworth in 1866.