The Old Curiosity Shop, Chapter 7 summary

What happens

1. In his room above a tobacco shop, Richard Swiveller tries to cheer his gloomy friend Trent with drink and playful speeches.
2. Trent proposes that Swiveller marry Nell in a few years and share her expected inheritance with him.
3. Trent claims he can pressure Nell into marriage and that her grandfather cannot bring himself to disinherit her.
4. Poverty, vanity, carelessness, and Trent’s influence gradually persuade Swiveller to accept the scheme.
5. A servant delivers Sophy Wackles’s letter, reminding Swiveller of a party and exposing his courtship.
6. Swiveller promises to begin ending that attachment, although he admires Sophy’s refusal to visit his room.

In this chapter

What to notice

The promise makes Trent’s financial purpose explicit. He treats Nell’s marriage as a means of gaining money rather than a choice belonging to her.

Quick check