The Secret Garden
Dr. Craven
Colin's doctor
Archibald Craven's cautious cousin, who attends Colin and cannot explain why his invalid patient is eating enough for three boys.
Dr. Craven is Archibald Craven's cousin and Colin's attending physician. He is fretful, overly cautious and weak-willed, and he does his formal medical duty. The character notes say he secretly eyes the Misselthwaite inheritance, which gives his anxious care a self-interested edge.
He supervises the household regimen that keeps Colin in bed, and he is one of the adults most invested in the idea that Colin is an invalid. He is more comfortable following routine than questioning it, and he does not like to be surprised. When Colin's health changes, he cannot make sense of it.
In the story
Contains spoilers.
As Colin spends more time in the garden, Dr. Craven and Mrs. Medlock are puzzled. Colin eats enough for three boys, his pulse is steady and strong, and yet he insists he is an invalid. Colin plays along, saying he feels weak but that roasted potatoes might help.
Dr. Craven is not part of the garden's circle, and the children keep their secret from him until Colin is ready to walk to his father.
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