The Reverend Septimus Harding, a man in his fifties, enjoys a position as both precentor at Barchester Cathedral and the warden of Hiram's Hospital. The institution, with deep historical roots, serves as a refuge for twelve elderly men, providing them comfort in their later years. Mr. Harding's substantial income from this role allows him to support his younger daughter, Eleanor, while his elder daughter, Susan, is married to Dr. Grantly, the cathedral's archdeacon.

John Bold's Quest for Reform

John Bold, an aspiring young physician, becomes an advocate for change when he discovers a financial imbalance at Hiram's Hospital. The will of John Hiram, the hospital's founder, does not justify the vast gap between the incomes of the warden and the steward compared to the residents'. Convinced of the need for justice, Bold seeks the help of a newspaperman, Tom Towers, and a solicitor, Finney, to inform the residents of their potential entitlement to an annual sum of up to one hundred pounds. The majority of the residents rally behind a petition to the bishop demanding fair treatment.

Public Scrutiny and Personal Turmoil

As The Jupiter begins to publish strong critiques of the Church's avarice and the misconduct of clergy, Mr. Harding finds himself troubled. The idea that he might be unjustly benefiting from his role is new and disturbing to him, leading him to consider resignation. His daughter Eleanor supports the idea of moving to Crabtree Parva, a modest parish providing a fifty-pound annual income, if it might bring her father peace of mind.

Opposition from Dr. Grantly

Dr. Grantly, a pragmatic man, adamantly opposes Mr. Harding's resignation. He argues that Mr. Harding owes a duty to the Church and its members, necessitating a stand against public pressure. Moreover, he points out that the income from Crabtree Parva would not suffice for Eleanor's prospects of a suitable marriage.

Efforts to Persuade the Residents

Attempting to quell the unrest, Dr. Grantly visits Hiram's Hospital to speak to the residents, emphasizing that John Hiram intended merely to provide a comfortable home for elderly bachelors with no other refuge. His words, however, resonate with only a few, such as John Bunce and his close companions. The rest remain firm in their belief that they deserve a greater income.

Eleanor's Intervention

Distressed by her father's situation, Eleanor pleads with him to step down. She also seeks out John Bold, urging him to drop the lawsuit. Moved by her request, Bold declares his affections, to which Eleanor reciprocates, despite not intending to let the situation escalate to this point.

Legal Maneuverings

Bold approaches Dr. Grantly to announce his intention to withdraw the charges, though Dr. Grantly, informed by his legal advisors, asserts that Mr. Harding and the steward are not culpable and cannot be named as defendants. Meanwhile, Mr. Harding decides to seek counsel in London with Sir Abraham Haphazard. He feels he lacks a rightful claim to the income from Hiram's Hospital and plans to communicate this during his meeting.

A Turn of Events in London

In London, Bold meets with Tom Towers to request a halt to the critical editorials, but Towers disclaims any control over the newspaper's stance. Bold instructs his lawyer to withdraw the suit, informing Sir Abraham. Mr. Harding, avoiding confrontation with Dr. Grantly, spends the day in Westminster Abbey before his evening appointment with Sir Abraham, where he resolves to resign as warden.

Resolving the Wardenship

Upon returning to his hotel, Mr. Harding finds Dr. and Mrs. Grantly awaiting him, but he remains firm in his decision to step down. He formally resigns to the bishop and sends a...