The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling Book 8, Chapter 2 Summary & Analysis

One day, the landlady visits Tom to bring him tea. She tells Tom she thinks he’s too good to be hanging out with the soldiers. She surprises Tom when he mentions Sophia by revealing that she has herself heard about Sophia, who has visited the inn herself with Mrs. Western in the past. The landlady talks about how lovely Sophia is and how she has probably lain right where Tom is currently lying down. Tom explains that he is only considering enlisting because he has no money but needs money if he wants to be with Sophia. When the landlady learns that Tom has no money, she leaves abruptly and ignores him.

This passage is yet another example from the novel about how external appearances can be deceiving. The landlady seems to be a kind woman, but as it turns out, this is only because Tom seems to be a well-off gentleman. When the truth comes out that Tom is currently poor, the landlady also reveals her true self, as it becomes clear that her kind appearance earlier was just because she expected Tom would be able to pay her a lot of money.

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The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling: Book 8, Chapter 2 Summary & Analysis