Great Expectations, Chapter 43 summary

What happens

1. The narrator fears that Compeyson might discover Provis’s return and inform against him.
2. At Richmond, Estella’s maid says she is at Satis House and gives guarded answers about her return.
3. The narrator and Herbert postpone discussing departure with Provis until the narrator returns from visiting Miss Havisham.
4. Claiming a promise to visit Joe, the narrator leaves Provis in Herbert’s care and takes an early coach.
5. At the Blue Boar, Drummle hints at dining with Estella while he and the narrator compete for space beside the fire.
6. After farmers break their standoff, the narrator sees a man resembling Orlick help Drummle, then leaves for the old house.

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What to notice

Drummle turns their quarrel into a taunt about loss. The narrator demands an explanation but avoids naming Estella because hearing Drummle say her name feels unbearable.

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