The Rise of Silas Lapham

Tom Corey has spent time considering how to approach Silas with regards to a job. He finds his mother and reveals his plans. Mrs. Corey shares her husband’s disapproval of Silas’s business. Mr. Corey does not like the advertisements that Silas paints on landmarks across the countryside. Mrs. Corey views Silas as too “common” (73) for her son. Tom ignores his mother’s comments. He seeks out Silas and makes him an offer: Tom will use his knowledge of European languages to sell paint in foreign countries, starting in South America. He speaks Spanish, French, and German, which impresses Silas, who is still “rather sore” (75) about the newspaper article. Tom offers to work for commission and Silas invites Tom to his summer residence to discuss the proposal. As they take a boat ride, Silas talks about his favorite pastimes. He enjoys reading newspapers and staring at the fresh-faced people in the pictures. This relaxes him. They are met at the dock by Penelope, who rides in the back of the carriage with Tom while Silas insists on taking the reins.