They wished to keep Mr. Bramble's profession a secret from Harold because they feared it would either hurt him emotionally or negatively impact his academic pursuits.
The Bramble Family's Concern
Harold was known to be a child prodigy, a brilliant and sensitive young individual. His parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bramble, were deeply invested in his well-being and intellectual development. Mr. Bramble's profession, however, was in the rough business of boxing, a world that seemed vastly different from the refined academic environment Harold excelled in.
Key Reasons for Secrecy
The primary motivations behind Mr. and Mrs. Bramble's decision to conceal the truth were rooted in their parental anxieties:
- Protecting Harold's Emotional Well-being: They worried that revealing his father's association with a "rough" sport like boxing might upset him or cause him distress.
- Safeguarding His Studies: Given Harold's status as a child prodigy, his parents were concerned that this revelation could distract him, create internal conflict, or otherwise affect his focus and performance in his studies.
To better understand the core reasons for their decision, consider the table below:
| Aspect of Concern | Description | Potential Outcome (Feared by Parents) |
|---|---|---|
| Harold's Nature | A child prodigy, highly intelligent and possibly sensitive. | Emotional hurt or distress. |
| Mr. Bramble's Profession | Boxing, perceived as a "rough" and unrefined business. | Negative impact on Harold's delicate sensibility. |
| Parental Goal | To nurture Harold's intellectual growth and ensure his well-being. | Disruption of studies or emotional harm if the secret was revealed. |
Ultimately, their desire to shield Harold stemmed from a protective instinct, aiming to maintain his innocent perspective and ensure nothing jeopardized his bright future.
