Book 2: Chapter 4 Summary

Tom is not entirely won over by Philip; he still remembers that he is the son of a rascal. He enjoys Philip's stories, however, and appreciates the help he gives with his lessons. Tom is now studying drawing, but he is disgusted because he is not drawing figures but "brooks and rustic bridges and ruins." Mr. Tulliver is not entirely satisfied with what Tom is studying, and suggests that it would be a good thing for him to learn skills that would enable him to become a draftsman.

Mr. Poulter, the village schoolmaster who has also been a soldier, is employed to teach Tom drills. He asks his instructor to please bring his sword and do a sword exercise. Tom is excited and goes to summon Philip, who is offended at the interruption, and they quarrel. Tom goes a little too...