Chapters 1-3 Summary

The novel "All Things Bright and Beautiful" details the life and work of country veterinarian James Herriot during the early years of his practice. Herriot writes his touching stories, which feature the antics of the animals he treats as well as their owners' eccentricities, from his own experience as an animal doctor in Yorkshire, England. Through his stories Herriot shares the challenges of his job as well as the fulfillment and joy he gains working with the animals.

In chapter 1 Herriot recounts a time when he was called in the middle of the night to check on a ewe that had just lambed. Harold Ingledew, the ewe's owner, has been out drinking. He slowly prepares to show Herriot the ailing animal while Herriot stands out in the cold. When they find the ewe and Herriot examines her, he discovers her problem...