The Old Curiosity Shop, Chapter 31 summary
Chapter 31 of 73 · 15 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 31, Nell discovers that her grandfather takes all her money and begs him to abandon gambling, but he refuses to change his purpose. Back at work, she delivers advertisements to Miss Monflathers, whose contempt for poor children also brings punishment upon Miss Edwards for helping her.
What happens
- Nell fears her grandfather’s gambling-driven behavior, but seeing him asleep restores her tenderness and strengthens her wish to protect him.
- After finding her money gone, Nell raises the loss indirectly, while her grandfather urges secrecy and dreams of recovering it.
- Nell pleads for their peaceful traveling life; her grandfather acknowledges its happiness but does not abandon his purpose.
- Back with Mrs. Jarley, Nell prepares the exhibition and receives advertisements to deliver to Miss Monflathers’s school.
- Miss Monflathers condemns Nell’s employment and argues that poor children should work constantly in manufacturing.
- Miss Edwards retrieves Nell’s handkerchief, receives punishment for her kindness, and leaves before Miss Monflathers threatens Nell and dismisses her.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Nell sees herself as her grandfather’s sole protector. Her devotion persists despite her fear of his behavior and her knowledge of his theft.
Quick check
Why does Miss Monflathers punish Miss Edwards?
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