Our Mutual Friend, Chapter 9 summary
Chapter 9 of 68 · Book 1: The Cup and the Lip · 23 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 9, Mr and Mrs Boffin plan a fashionable home, seek help adopting an orphan, and invite Bella Wilfer to share their comforts. Their generosity meets warmth from the Milveys and mixed responses from Bella’s family, while the proposed use of John Harmon’s name prompts a startling reaction from Mr. Rokesmith.
What happens
- Mrs Boffin proposes a better house, companionship for Bella, and the adoption of a boy named after John Harmon.
- The narrator explains that the Boffins’ harsh former employer recognizes their honesty and includes them in his will.
- The Milveys agree to seek a suitable orphan, and Mr Boffin offers money for their charitable spending.
- Bella warms to the Boffins’ invitation, while Mrs Wilfer guards her dignity and Lavinia objects to being included.
- Mr. Rokesmith turns pale at the mention of showing Bella John Harmon, then explains his reaction and declares his interest in her.
- Lavinia mocks Bella’s prospects, and Mrs Wilfer jealously claims that Mrs Boffin’s face reveals sinister intentions.
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Our Mutual Friend, 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
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 a day.
In this chapter
Quick check
Why does Mr. Rokesmith turn pale beside the carriage?
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Our Mutual Friend, 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
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 a day.
200,000+ classics to read, hear and hold
15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.
Try 3 months free
