The Warden · Chapters

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Chapter companions for The Warden by Anthony Trollope.

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Chapter 1
Hiram's Hospital
The chapter introduces the Rev. Septimus Harding, precentor of Barchester Cathedral and warden of Hiram's Hospital, a charitable almshouse for twelve elderly men. It describes the history of the hospital, founded by John Hiram in 1434, and Mr. Harding's character, his generous but financially imprudent nature, and his relationship with his daughter Eleanor and his son-in-law Archdeacon Grantly.
Chapter 2
The Barchester Reformer
Mr. Harding, the precentor of Barchester, becomes uneasy as murmurs about the misuse of Hiram's estate resurface. The archdeacon, Dr. Grantly, defends the church's position, while a young surgeon named John Bold emerges as a reformer, stirring discontent among the bedesmen. Bold's relationship with Eleanor Harding adds personal tension to the public controversy.
Chapter 3
The Bishop of Barchester
Mr. Harding visits the Bishop of Barchester to confess his doubts about the legitimacy of his income as warden of Hiram's Hospital, following John Bold's challenge. The bishop, a gentle and kind old man, initially advises Harding to refer the matter to the archdeacon, Dr. Grantly, but Harding presses him on the question of John Hiram's will. The bishop offers sympathy but no clear resolution. Harding then reveals that John Bold is a close friend of his daughter Eleanor, and may become his son-in-law, shocking the bishop, who sees Bold as a dangerous reformer. Harding extracts a promise that Eleanor's name will not be mentioned in discussions about the hospital, and leaves the bishop bewildered.
Chapter 4
Hiram's Bedesmen
The bedesmen of Hiram's Hospital are divided over a petition, instigated by attorney Finney, to demand a larger share of the charity's income. Abel Handy leads a faction of six men who sign the petition, while the loyal Bunce and two others resist. Through pressure and manipulation, Handy secures the marks of three wavering men—Skulpit, Crumple, and Gazy—bringing the total to nine signatures. Bunce confronts them, arguing that the warden has been a true friend and that legal action will only harm them, but the petition is carried away.
Chapter 5
Dr. Grantly Visits the Hospital
Archdeacon Grantly, confident in the justice of ecclesiastical revenues, visits the hospital to confront the bedesmen after their petition. He delivers a forceful speech arguing that John Hiram intended only to provide basic shelter and food for worn-out laborers, not a generous income. Mr. Harding, distressed by his son-in-law's harshness, reassures the men he will not worsen their condition. The archdeacon then plans to secure Sir Abraham Haphazard as legal counsel, while Harding retreats into silent anxiety.

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Hiram's Hospital

The Barchester Reformer

The Bishop of Barchester

Hiram's Bedesmen

Dr. Grantly Visits the Hospital