Jonathan's kindly Exeter employer becomes his partner and surrogate father, then dies suddenly and leaves the Harkers his fortune.
Peter Hawkins is the Exeter solicitor who sends Jonathan Harker to complete Count Dracula's purchase of Carfax. His letter praises Jonathan's discretion, energy, and faithful service, while his office forwards the few messages allowed out of the castle.
After Jonathan returns shattered, Hawkins receives him and Mina Harker with paternal warmth, makes Jonathan a partner, and leaves the couple everything in his will. His sudden death removes their closest elder just as Jonathan is recovering and summons them to London for the funeral.
An older English solicitor afflicted by gout and regarded with paternal affection; his face, hair, build, and clothing are not described.
Hawkins is Jonathan's employer, mentor, and adoptive father figure, whose trust begins the Dracula transaction and whose legacy establishes the Harkers' future.