Jim and Billy Bones

A strange bond of fear, pity, and silver fourpence grows between the boy and the dying pirate.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Fourpenny Bond

Fourpenny Bond Context Billy Bones promises Jim Hawkins a silver fourpenny every month to watch for a one-legged seafaring man. Development The payments are often late, but the captain always makes good. Jim becomes the only person the captain seems to trust. Significance The arrangement creates an odd intimacy between the boy and the buccaneer. Jim learns to read the captain's fears and moods.

Fear and Pity

Fear and Pity Context Billy Bones lies weak and terrified, begging for rum and raving about the Black Spot. Jim brings him a single glass. Development Jim sees the captain as an old hulk on a lee shore, both dangerous and pitiable. He is caught between fear and compassion. Significance The mixed feeling makes Jim's connection to Billy more than simple fear. It is his first lesson in human weakness.

Rum and Confession

Rum and Confession Context The captain tells Jim about Flint, the treasure, and the sea-chest, swearing Jim to secrecy unless the Black Spot arrives. Development In his feverish confession, Billy passes on the burden of the secret. He grows weaker as he speaks. Significance The confession binds Jim to the old pirate's fate. It is the moment the treasure becomes Jim's responsibility.

Tears for a Dead Tyrant

Tears for a Dead Tyrant Context When Billy Bones dies, Jim Hawkins bursts into a flood of tears, even though he never liked the man. Development The second death in Jim's young life brings back the fresh grief of his father. He weeps for the captain as much as for his own loss. Significance The tears humanize both Jim and the old buccaneer. The boy's heart is not yet hardened by adventure.

The Captain's Shade

The Captain's Shade Context As Jim sets out for Bristol, he remembers the captain's cocked hat, sabre-cut cheek, and brass telescope on the beach. Development The memory is already painted over by the new adventure. The old pirate fades into the past, but his map still guides him. Significance The captain's shade marks the beginning of Jim's journey. Billy Bones is less a person than a ghost that launches the story.

early in Billy Bones's stay at the inn

after the captain's stroke and Black Dog's visit

after the stroke, while Billy lies in bed

after Billy Bones falls dead in the parlour

when Jim leaves the Admiral Benbow for the last time