David Copperfield, Chapter 12 summary
Chapter 12 of 64 · 16 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 12, David decides to seek his aunt as the Micawbers prepare to leave London, while their release from financial trouble brings unexpected misery rather than relief. With money and directions from Peggotty, he leaves his warehouse job, but a cart driver steals his belongings and travel money before he turns toward Greenwich on foot.
What happens
- Mr. Micawber receives a discharge order, but he and his wife become unexpectedly miserable as their familiar troubles end.
- The prospect of losing the Micawbers leads David to decide that he must escape his warehouse life.
- The Micawbers share a farewell dinner with David, offer advice, and leave for Plymouth.
- Peggotty sends David half a guinea and tells him that Miss Betsey lives near Dover.
- David finishes his working week without collecting wages and hires a young man to transport his box.
- The young man steals David’s money and box, and David abandons pursuit and turns toward Greenwich.
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In this chapter
What to notice
David recognizes that waiting brings no change. This conviction turns his distress into a practical decision to leave.
Quick check
What does Peggotty send David in response to his request?
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