The Coxon Fund

Henry James’s fascinating short story “The Coxon Fund” centers on Frank Saltram, a guy of great intelligence who only shows himself through dazzling table talk. Saltram, for all his cerebral capacity, generates little more than dialogue. He depends on other people to survive, especially the Mulvilles, who provide him with months of hospitality since they think he’s brilliant.

The narrative focuses on the interactions between Ruth Anvoy, a young American woman engaged to George Gravener, and Saltram, as well as the group of people who find him fascinating. The story explores character complexity, societal expectations, and the extent people will acquire intellectual property.