Mrs. Pumphrey is a fictional character from the story “The Hermit” by R.K. Narayan. She is a wealthy, middle-aged woman who lives in the town of Malgudi with her beloved pet dog, Tricki.

Appearance and Personality:
Mrs. Pumphrey is described as a plump, cheerful woman with rosy cheeks and a kind demeanor. She is always well-dressed and enjoys showing off her wealth through her fancy clothes and accessories. She is also deeply devoted to her pet dog, Tricki, and spoils him with expensive food and treats.

Love for Tricki:
Mrs. Pumphrey’s love for Tricki is the driving force behind most of her actions in the story. She is deeply attached to him and treats him like a human being rather than an animal. She constantly worries about his health and well-being, and is quick to call the vet at the slightest sign of illness. In fact, Mrs. Pumphrey’s overindulgence and pampering of Tricki is what leads to his health issues in the first place.

Wealth and Status:
Mrs. Pumphrey’s wealth and status are also important aspects of her character. She enjoys flaunting her wealth through her luxurious lifestyle and expensive possessions, such as her car and her silk dresses. She is used to getting what she wants and is somewhat spoiled herself, which is reflected in the way she treats Tricki.

Overall, Mrs. Pumphrey is a well-meaning but somewhat naive character who is deeply attached to her pet dog and enjoys showing off her wealth and status. Her actions in the story ultimately lead to Tricki’s health problems, but she learns an important lesson about the importance of moderation and taking responsibility for one’s actions.