Little Dorrit, Book 2: Riches, Chapter 12 summary
Book 2: Riches, Chapter 12 of 70 · 25 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 12, Mr Merdle hosts a lavish dinner where Bar and Ferdinand Barnacle maneuver him into a private conference with Lord Decimus, linking his wealth and electoral influence to political patronage. Edmund Sparkler receives a Circumlocution Office appointment, and the public treats this government recognition as further proof of Merdle’s financial standing.
What happens
- Mrs Merdle presses her husband to obtain a position for Edmund Sparkler, while Merdle prepares a dinner for influential guests.
- Bar flatters the guests, and Merdle confirms that three constituencies elect whichever candidates he chooses.
- Ferdinand describes the Department’s lengthy difficulty accepting Mr Dorrit’s repayment, and Merdle mentions Sparkler’s interest in one daughter.
- After repeated failures, Bar and Ferdinand bring Merdle and Lord Decimus together for their private discussion.
- Sparkler receives a Circumlocution Office appointment, strengthening public confidence in Merdle’s bank and other ventures.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Merdle openly states his control over electoral constituencies. His assurance exposes the political power behind the dinner’s elaborate courtesies.
Quick check
How do Bar and Ferdinand finally arrange the private conference?
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