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Our Mutual Friend, Book 3: A Long Lane, Chapter 13 summary

Book 3: A Long Lane, Chapter 13 of 68 · 17 min to read the chapter

In Chapter 13, Fledgeby hides his control of the business and makes Riah appear responsible for harsh treatment of Twemlow and the Lammles. By pretending to plead for mercy while silently demanding severity, he wins Twemlow’s gratitude and makes Miss Wren distrust Riah, even fearing for Lizzie.

What happens

  1. Miss Wren comes to buy fabric scraps, and Fledgeby denies owning the business while accusing Riah of deception.
  2. Twemlow arrives and explains that a debt guaranteed for a deceased friend now requires immediate repayment.
  3. Fledgeby pretends to offer help and prepares Twemlow to interpret Riah’s quiet manner as cruelty.
  4. Riah returns after enforcing the Lammles’ bill of sale and follows Fledgeby’s silent instructions to refuse Twemlow relief.
  5. Twemlow leaves distressed but grateful to Fledgeby, who privately laughs at his success.
  6. Riah fills Miss Wren’s basket, but she condemns him and fears he might betray Lizzie.

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In this chapter

Lizzie HexamTheme: Prejudice and blame

What to notice

Riah states the truth about his position. Fledgeby dismisses that truth as an excuse, preserving the deception before both witnesses.

Quick check

Why does Twemlow owe money that he never receives?

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