Little Dorrit, Book 2: Riches, Chapter 23 summary
Book 2: Riches, Chapter 23 of 70 · 21 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 23, Arthur Clennam warns his mother about Blandois and, when she rejects his help, secretly questions Affery about the household’s mysteries. Affery describes frightening noises and Jeremiah’s violence, but makes further disclosure depend on Arthur first overcoming the two people who keep her afraid.
What happens
- Arthur resolves to appeal to Affery if his mother continues to refuse his help.
- Mrs Clennam turns his warning about Blandois against him and refuses any explanation of her affairs.
- Flora requests a house tour so Arthur can approach Affery, but Jeremiah follows them.
- A knock draws Jeremiah away, allowing Arthur to question Affery inside a dark closet.
- Affery describes noises and abuse, then conditionally promises to explain her dreams if Arthur defeats her intimidators.
- Jeremiah returns and pinches Affery; the tour continues through dusty, airless rooms before everyone returns upstairs.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Affery describes her prolonged fearful uncertainty through dreams. Her conditional promise makes freedom from intimidation necessary before she can explain herself.
Quick check
What condition does Affery set before she might tell Arthur her dreams?
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