David Copperfield, Chapter 44 summary

What happens

1. Late meals prompt David to question Dora about managing Mary Anne, but Dora hears his complaints as rejection and cries.
2. Betsey refuses to interfere and tells David to value Dora’s existing qualities; the couple reconcile.
3. Mary Anne leaves after her cousin’s arrest, but replacement servants and dishonest tradespeople keep the household in disorder.
4. A failed dinner for Traddles ends happily, and Dora asks David to think of her as his child-wife.
5. Dora’s attempts at accounts fail, and David stops pressing her, taking on their cares while privately wishing for an adviser.
6. Dora enjoys holding David’s pens, copying occasional pages, and carrying household keys, while Betsey grows increasingly affectionate toward her.

In this chapter

What to notice

David states the practical cost of protecting Dora from distress. Their affection remains strong, but responsibility becomes his alone.

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