Chapters 3-4 Summary

In chapter 3, the Small family arrives at the house of Dies Drear. The house is quite large and imposing, appearing almost frightening in the gloom of a rainstorm as it looks down on the family from its perch on the top of a hill. Thomas' mother is a little frightened by the house, but Thomas is excited. Thomas helps his mother carry his twin brothers into the house where the family discovers the caretaker, Mr. Pluto, has already arranged their furniture. Thomas finds the arrangement offensive, however, convinced Mr. Pluto arranged it in such a way as to suggest they would be better off leaving. However, Thomas' parents are thrilled by the thoughtfulness of the caretaker. Thomas takes the twins out on the verandah where he questions their queer reaction to the heavy front door. Thomas takes a closer look at...