Student Question

How did Silver allay Jim's suspicions? What were the Squire and Doctor's opinions of Silver?

Quick answer:

Silver allayed Jim's suspicions by agreeing with Jim's negative views of pirates like Black Dog and Pew, and by engaging him with stories about ships and sea life. Squire Trelawney felt both liking and pity for Silver after hearing his story about wanting to return to sea and not receiving a pension for his lost leg. Dr. Livsey also liked Silver and expressed complete trust in him.

Expert Answers

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Jim was excited about the coming voyage for several reasons.  First there is the prospect of treasure to gain, and even more importantly to Jim, there is the prospect of adventure.  Although Jim recognizes the evil in the pirates he has met, he still admires them.  They are so exciting in comparison to his father who is ordinary and unexciting.  Jim is encouraged in his excitement by Dr. Livingston and Squire Trelawney who also allowed themselves to get excited about the voyage and the possibility of treasure.

Silver allayed Jim's suspicions by agreeing with Jim in his negative opinion of the Black Dog and Pew, and by spending time with Jim, telling him about ships and sea life.

Squire Trelawney liked and pitied Silver after Silver told him how he wanted to get back to sea and how he had not gotten a pension for the loss of his leg.  Dr. Livsey also liked Silver when he met him and later asserts that he trusts him completely.

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