Oliver Twist, Chapter 10 summary

What happens

1. After days indoors removing marks from handkerchiefs, Oliver gains permission to go out with the Dodger and Charley Bates.
2. The boys wander through the streets, taking things before stopping near an old gentleman absorbed in a book.
3. The Dodger steals the gentleman’s handkerchief and passes it to Charley Bates, making Oliver understand his companions’ activities.
4. Oliver runs in terror, and the gentleman mistakes him for the thief; the actual thieves join the spreading chase.
5. A man strikes Oliver down, and the crowd gathers around him while the gentleman shows concern.
6. A police officer drags Oliver away despite his denial, while the Dodger and Charley Bates escape.

In this chapter

What to notice

Oliver names the truth while the officer treats him as guilty. His plea exposes the gap between what the crowd assumes and what actually happens.

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