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Les Misérables, Book 2: Éponine, Chapter 2 summary

Book 2: Éponine, Chapter 2 of 365 · 7 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 2, Javert’s success proves incomplete as suspects escape, while Brujon uses prison messengers and hidden notes to arrange another crime. His proposal reaches Éponine through Babet’s contacts, but her inspection of the house on Rue Plumet produces a coded refusal that stops the scheme.

What happens

  1. Javert fails to hold the attacked man, Montparnasse, and Claquesous, while Éponine joins Azelma in prison.
  2. Brujon appears confused and sick, but officials discover his paid messages to three dangerous prowlers and arrest their recipients.
  3. A guard catches Brujon writing, but officials cannot seize his note and place him in solitary confinement.
  4. A bread packet carries Brujon’s proposal concerning a garden gate on Rue Plumet to Babet.
  5. Babet’s imprisoned mistress and Magnon pass the proposal to Éponine after her release.
  6. Éponine inspects the property and sends a biscuit as a negative answer, ending Brujon’s scheme.

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In this chapter

JavertÉponine

What to notice

The narrator separates a planner’s intention from the effects of his actions. Brujon’s proposed crime fails, but the narrator stresses that its effects are not exhausted.

Quick check

What does Éponine’s biscuit communicate?

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