Book Five

Chapters 7 - 12

Summary

Tom Jones lives in Squire WesternÂ’s house for more than a fortnight. Squire Western is reluctant to let Tom go. But, one day, Tom hears news of his benefactor Squire Allworthy. The Squire had not been keeping too well and had summoned his family around him. According to the doctor the SquireÂ’s life is in danger.

The Squire is ready to face death and draws his will. Mrs. Blifil had gone abroad at this time. But the Squire gets together the rest of the family around his bed and bids them farewell while telling them what he has provided for each. An attorney comes to give the Squire a message. The Squire asks Blifil to deal with the attorney.

Thwackum, Square and Mrs. Wilkins complain about the amount left for them by the Squire. They had expected even more from him. The attorney from Salisbury informs Blifil that his mother is dead. Blifil informs the SquireÂ’s doctor before telling the Squire himself. Squire Allworthy receives this news with composure. He asks about the messenger who delivered the news of his sisterÂ’s death to the house. Blifil informs him that the messenger was in a hurry. Allworthy then desires Blifil to take care of the funeral.

Jones is worried about Squire Allworthy. The physician informs the family that the Squire is out of danger. Jones becomes drunk and very happy at this news. Thwackum and Jones argue. Blifil is offended by TomÂ’s behavior because it is inconsistent with the sober & prudent reserve of his own temper. Tom apologizes about not being grave about BlifilÂ’s mother's death but they only land up arguing instead. Jones retires from Blifil Square and ThwackumÂ’s company. He goes for a walk and remembers Sophia, but meets Molly Seagrim instead. Tom retires with Molly into the thickest part of the grove. The parson and Blifil too were walking in the same area. Blifil recognizes Tom from a distance and tells the parson that he saw a couple retire in the grove.

Then Sophia swoons too and all the attention is diverted to her. Tom runs up to her and takes her to the river. She is restored to her senses and everyone is relieved. Mr. Western is told the cause of the fight. This Squire scoffs at the cause of the quarrel being a woman. Tom accompanies the Westerns and the parson to the former's house. Thwackum and Blifil return to Squire AllworthyÂ’s house.

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