How does Holmes account for the fact "that a chaise breaks down, but doesn't wear out"?
What kind of chaise did the Deacon decide to build?
On what principle did he expect to do this?
Read the lines in which the Deacon states the result of his experience with chaises.
What do you think of his reasoning?
To what besides the building of a chaise might this principle be applied?
To what does the poet compare the breaking down of the chaise?
Read lines which show the serious side of the poet's nature.
Read the lines by means of which he passes from seriousness to jest.
Do you think Holmes expects his readers to believe this story? Give reason for your answer.