Little Dorrit, Book 2: Riches, Chapter 27 summary
Book 2: Riches, Chapter 27 of 70 · 24 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 27, Arthur Clennam reflects on Little Dorrit’s goodness in the Marshalsea, while John Chivery struggles between jealousy and kindness before revealing that she loves Arthur. The disclosure changes Arthur’s understanding of her letters and his own feelings, though he tries to find comfort in her distance from his misfortune.
What happens
- Alone in prison, Arthur recognizes how deeply Little Dorrit’s example shapes his better actions and intentions.
- John Chivery brings Arthur’s belongings, lends him furniture without charge, and invites him to tea despite his jealous resentment.
- After repeated misunderstandings, John explains that Little Dorrit loves Arthur, who receives the news with stunned disbelief.
- Arthur rereads her letters and questions whether he suppresses feelings of love beneath his fatherly manner.
- Mr and Mrs Plornish bring provisions, and Mrs Plornish stresses how painfully Arthur’s imprisonment would affect Little Dorrit.
- Arthur spends the night thinking of her, while John sleeps after composing an imagined epitaph celebrating his generosity.
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In this chapter
What to notice
The disclosure displaces Arthur’s immediate troubles. It forces him to reinterpret familiar memories and consider whether his own affection exceeds fatherly concern.
Quick check
Why does John say he takes such care of Arthur?
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