Little Dorrit, Chapter 22 summary
Chapter 22 of 70 · Book 1: Poverty · 15 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 22, Arthur Clennam hears Mrs Chivery's account of her son's rejected courtship, then meets Little Dorrit and witnesses her distress over her family's requests for money. He questions whether an unreachable attachment explains her agitation, while the narrator confirms that she thinks devotedly of him.
What happens
- Little Dorrit's father privately criticizes Clennam for failing to offer more money, while maintaining a polite welcome.
- Mr Chivery directs Clennam to his wife, who asks him to help reverse Little Dorrit's rejection of their son.
- Clennam promises to support Little Dorrit's wishes but urges Mrs Chivery to establish the facts and keep silent.
- On the Iron Bridge, Little Dorrit tells Clennam that enjoying freedom while her father remains confined feels unkind.
- Maggy delivers money requests from Little Dorrit's father and Tip; Clennam grants the father's request and refuses the son's.
- Little Dorrit hurries back in anguish, leaving Clennam wondering about her feelings; the narrator reveals her devoted thoughts of him.
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In this chapter
What to notice
The closing sentence reveals the direction of Little Dorrit's devotion while Clennam remains uncertain about her attachment.
Quick check
How does Clennam respond to the two requests for money?
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