Jem asks Atticus if he thinks the tree is dead because he doesn't believe Nathan Radley's explanation for filling the hole with cement. Atticus tells Jem that he doesn't think the tree is dead or unhealthy. Atticus mentions that the leaves are green, and there are no brown patches. When Jem tells him that Nathan Radley said it was dying, Atticus says it might be because Mr. Radley knows more about trees than they do. Jem doesn't believe Nathan's explanation, yet seeks Atticus' opinion to reassure his own. Anytime Jem had questions throughout his life, he sought the advice of his father. Jem looks up to his father and knows Atticus is full of wisdom and would not lie to him. Jem had a suspicion that Nathan Radley was lying to him. The only adult Jem knows will not lie to him is his father, Atticus. When Atticus hears that Nathan told Jem the tree was dying, Atticus makes a concession to his earlier comments by saying, "Well maybe it is. I’m sure Mr. Radley knows more about his trees than we do." (Ch. 7)
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