Oliver Twist, Chapter 31 summary
Chapter 31 of 53 · 16 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 31, Blathers and Duff investigate the attempted burglary while Mr. Losberne protects Oliver with a false explanation of his wound and challenges the servants’ identification. The witnesses contradict themselves, Mrs. Maylie and the doctor provide bail, and Oliver remains under their care as his strength gradually returns.
What happens
- Blathers and Duff arrive, inspect the house, and repeatedly question Giles and Brittles about the attempted burglary.
- Mr. Losberne warns Rose and Mrs. Maylie that Oliver’s truthful account could make the officers suspect him.
- While the officers drink, Blathers tells how Jem Spyers exposes Conkey Chickweed’s supposed robbery as a fraud.
- The doctor presents Oliver’s wound as a spring-gun accident, and both servants lose confidence in their identification.
- A pistol containing only powder and paper deepens the confusion, while an investigation of suspects in Kingston produces no evidence.
- Mrs. Maylie and Mr. Losberne provide bail, the officers depart, and Oliver recovers under the household’s care.
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In this chapter
What to notice
The doctor identifies the gap between Oliver’s innocence and the evidence available to support it. This concern explains his decision to mislead the officers.
Quick check
Why does Brittles initially identify Oliver as the burglars’ boy?
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