Hard Times, Book 3: Reaping, Chapter 4 summary
Book 3: Reaping, Chapter 4 of 37 · 14 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 4, Mr. Bounderby offers a reward for Stephen Blackpool, while Rachael defends Stephen and promises his return to answer the robbery accusation. Louisa confirms Rachael’s account and rejects Stephen’s guilt, but messengers discover that he leaves his lodging after receiving Rachael’s letter, and his whereabouts remain unknown.
What happens
- Mr. Bounderby posts a reward for Stephen’s capture, and Slackbridge persuades most workers to condemn their former companion.
- Rachael explains Stephen’s use of another name and insists that her letter brings him back within two days.
- Louisa rejects Stephen’s guilt, while she and Sissy exchange a troubled look and become guarded around Mr. Gradgrind.
- After Stephen fails to appear, Rachael supplies his address, but messengers find that he leaves upon receiving her letter.
- Tom publicly treats Stephen’s absence as proof of guilt, but his own questions torment him through the night.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Rachael defends Stephen’s right to act independently. Her question connects his isolation with pressure from both employers and fellow workers.
Quick check
What do the messengers discover at Stephen’s lodging?
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