Little Dorrit, Book 2: Riches, Chapter 10 summary
Book 2: Riches, Chapter 10 of 70 · 12 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 10, Arthur Clennam encounters Blandois outside his mother’s house and discovers that she and Flintwinch receive him despite his insulting behavior. His mother dismisses Arthur before their business begins, while Blandois hints at danger and Affery refuses to explain, deepening Arthur’s suspicions about the household.
What happens
- After fruitless reflection on Miss Wade and Tattycoram, Arthur walks toward his mother’s house, imagining secrets throughout the surrounding streets.
- A man Arthur recognizes reaches the house ahead of him, and Affery reluctantly admits them both.
- Blandois mocks Arthur, while Mrs. Clennam defends the visitor and insists his purpose concerns business.
- Flintwinch arrives, receives Blandois’s rough embrace, and watches Arthur while Mrs. Clennam watches their guest.
- Mrs. Clennam dismisses Arthur, but Blandois delays his departure with a story about precautions against murder.
- Arthur asks Affery what is happening, and she describes herself as trapped in a dream and sends him away.
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Little Dorrit, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
In this chapter
What to notice
Affery offers no explanation for the household’s behavior. Her frightened refusal leaves Arthur without answers and reinforces the secrecy surrounding the meeting.
Quick check
Why does Mrs. Clennam tell Arthur to leave her room?
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Little Dorrit, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.
Try 3 months free
