John Harrison is another man of goodwill, but with severe limitations; he is one who admires Arthur Jarvis yet is incapable of understanding or imitating him. He regards Arthur as a dreamer and himself as a practical man. Although he may admire a dreamer or idealist, he puts little stock in ideals.
Thus, we see the relationship of fathers and sons concerning social problems. Jarvis mentions that he and his son had differed quite strongly on the question of black problems. John Harrison also admits that he and his father had arguments about social problems. Paton is trying here to suggest that the younger generation is more conscious of the need for social change. This argument should be contrasted to what is happening with Stephen and his son, who apparently disagree as to the proper ethics of life.
What most influences Jarvis about his son Arthur is the knowledge that Arthur had been threatened 6n several occasions, but had answered the threats by saying he had to speak the truth under any circumstance. Jarvis also hears his son spoken of as a missionary, realizes that he never really knew his son, and wonders how many of these values were instilled in his son during his youth.
The things a man possesses often tell a great deal about that man. An examination of the possessions of Arthur Jarvis reveals his books are directed toward one facet of life. One entire bookshelf is devoted to books about Lincoln and the emancipation of blacks in America. Other books are about South Africa and its racial and social problems. In addition to Shakespeare's plays are books about religion, justice, and crime. From these books, we can assume that Arthur Jarvis was vitally interested in the social development of his country and had read extensively about its history and social problems.
