Les Misérables, Book 2: Éponine, Chapter 3 summary
Book 2: Éponine, Chapter 3 of 365 · 6 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 3, Father Mabeuf struggles with poverty and exhaustion until an unknown girl appears and waters his thirsty garden. In return, she asks where Marius lives, and Mabeuf tells her where he often walks, giving her a place to search while leaving him puzzled by her disappearance.
What happens
- Marius and Father Mabeuf withdraw from company, exchanging only sad nods when they meet.
- Mabeuf pawns his copperplates to fund indigo experiments, eats little, and hopes his work can restore his finances.
- One dry evening, he finds his plants wilting but lacks the strength to release the well chain.
- A ragged girl emerges from the hedge and waters the entire garden.
- She asks about Marius, receives directions to his usual walking area, and disappears.
- Mabeuf goes to bed wondering whether his mysterious helper is a goblin.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Mabeuf measures the girl's goodness through her care for his plants. His gratitude contrasts with her own claim to be a devil.
Quick check
What does the girl ask Mabeuf after watering his garden?
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