Mr. John Pendleton
Chapter 19 - Which is Somewhat Surprising
Mr. Pendleton / John Pendleton
Complaining about Pollyanna's absence due to school, Pendleton asks her to live with him and reveals his lifelong regret over not bringing his former love to his house. He becomes terrified when Pollyanna suggests Aunt Polly join them, begging her to say nothing of the matter before the doctor appears and checks his racing pulse.
Chapter 20 - Which is More Surprising
Pendleton / John Pendleton / Mr. John Pendleton
Mr. Pendleton anxiously puzzles over Pollyanna's previous claims of romance between him and Miss Polly, eventually revealing that he loved Pollyanna's mother, Jennie, long ago. He confesses his deep loneliness and wealth, asking Pollyanna to live with him to share his happiness, but grows irritable and alarmed when she reveals she told Dr. Chilton about her plans.