Hard Times, Book 2: Reaping, Chapter 6 summary
Book 2: Reaping, Chapter 6 of 37 · 19 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 6, Stephen Blackpool prepares to leave Coketown after losing his employment, while Louisa offers money and Tom privately directs him to wait near the Bank. Mrs. Pegler shows an unexplained fear of Bounderby, Stephen parts painfully from Rachael, and he leaves town after receiving no message from Tom.
What happens
- Stephen meets Rachael and Mrs. Pegler, explains his loss of employment, and invites both women for tea.
- Mrs. Pegler speaks uneasily about her son and panics when she thinks Bounderby is approaching.
- Louisa visits with Tom, learns about Stephen’s isolation, and lends him the two pounds he agrees to accept.
- Tom privately tells Stephen to wait outside the Bank for a possible message offering help.
- Stephen and Rachael exchange blessings and part, agreeing that he should write to her.
- Stephen waits outside the Bank on three evenings without receiving a message, then leaves Coketown at daybreak.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Louisa’s question identifies Stephen’s exclusion by both workers and employers. It also marks her growing awareness of a worker’s individual situation.
Quick check
What does Stephen receive during his evening waits outside the Bank?
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