Les Misérables, Book 8: The Wicked Poor Man, Chapter 16 summary
Book 8: The Wicked Poor Man, Chapter 16 of 365 · 5 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 16, Marius listens as Jondrette prepares his family for a trap and sends his eldest daughter to check the neighboring room. Marius hides beneath his bed, escapes discovery when she concentrates on her reflection, and remains inside as both daughters leave to keep watch.
What happens
- Marius waits anxiously with pistols in his pockets and notices a reddish light from the silent neighboring room.
- Jondrette returns, checks preparations with his wife, and promises the family a fine dinner tomorrow.
- Unsure whether their neighbor is absent, Jondrette sends his eldest daughter into Marius's room with a candle.
- Marius hides under his bed while the girl studies herself in the mirror and falsely claims to search the furniture.
- The daughters leave barefoot to watch the house, while Marius remains concealed among those still inside.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Jondrette describes the operation through images of trapping and predation. His confidence contrasts with his failure to discover Marius nearby.
Quick check
Why does the eldest daughter fail to discover Marius?
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