Nicholas Nickleby, Chapter 21 summary
Chapter 21 of 65 · 20 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 21, Kate Nickleby returns to work, but the Mantalinis’ bankruptcy costs her the position, and the narrator reveals Ralph Nickleby’s leading part in their failure. Encouraged by her mother, Kate applies to become Mrs. Wititterly’s companion and moves into her household after favorable inquiries, without much happiness about the change.
What happens
- Kate returns after three days away and encounters continued hostility from Miss Knag and the other workers.
- Scaley and Tix arrive with a legal order, demand payment, and begin recording the Mantalinis’ possessions.
- Mr. Mantalini stages a threat of self-harm, and his distressed wife withdraws her blame.
- Bankruptcy follows, Miss Knag takes over the business, and Kate receives notice that she is dismissed.
- With Ralph’s approval, Kate and her mother visit Mrs. Wititterly, whose husband stresses her supposed delicacy and social importance.
- The Wititterlys approve Kate after making inquiries, and she moves into their house a week afterward.
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In this chapter
What to notice
The narrator exposes Ralph’s responsibility for the business failure. His approval of Kate’s new application stands beside his concealed involvement in the loss of her previous post.
Quick check
Who takes over the dressmaking business after the bankruptcy?
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