Little Dorrit, Book 2: Riches, Chapter 28 summary
Book 2: Riches, Chapter 28 of 70 · 30 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 28, Arthur Clennam sinks deeper into prison isolation before Cavalletto and Pancks bring Rigaud to his room, exposing his disappearance as a deliberate threat against Arthur’s mother. Unable to leave prison, Arthur watches Rigaud secure support for his expenses and set a final meeting in one week, then remains alone in greater despair.
What happens
- Arthur withdraws from prison society, and Ferdinand Barnacle visits to defend official inaction and discourage further appeals about the invention.
- Mr Rugg urges Arthur to move to the Bench for social and professional reasons, but Arthur refuses.
- Cavalletto and Pancks bring Rigaud, whom they locate living secretly under the appearance of a grey-haired soldier.
- Rigaud admits staging his disappearance to pressure Mrs. Clennam over something he offers to sell her.
- Rigaud sends a letter demanding expenses and a final meeting, then describes receiving payment from Wade for information about the Gowans.
- Flintwinch brings Mrs. Clennam’s agreement; Rigaud leaves with Cavalletto, and Arthur gives Pancks private instructions before facing solitude again.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Rigaud openly treats personal knowledge and relationships as goods for sale. His statement connects his dealings with Wade to his pressure on Mrs. Clennam.
Quick check
Why does Rigaud say he deliberately disappears?
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