Chapter 1 Summary

The book opens with three young English men sitting idle, smoking and talking about their health. Their names are George, William Samuel Harris, and J., the author and narrator. Montmorency, a terrier, is also present. On the subject of health, J. admits he is something of a hypochondriac. Every ailment he hears about or reads about in an advertisement for patent medicine seems to fit his symptoms perfectly. He has gone to his doctor, he explains, who prescribes a hearty diet and exercise, and tells him not to "stuff up your head with things you don't understand" (p. 5). J. jokes that the prime symptom of his current malady is "a general disinclination to work of any kind" (p. 5).

After a meal and some more general complaining about their health, the three decide they need a change for a week or so. They reject...