The Old Curiosity Shop, Chapter 27 summary
Chapter 27 of 73 · 13 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 27, Mrs Jarley offers Nell work showing her wax figures and agrees to provide work, food, and lodging for her grandfather too. They accept, but Nell secretly sees Quilp passing through the town that night, and fear disrupts her sleep despite the protection of her new surroundings.
What happens
- Mrs Jarley displays her advertisements, explains her wax exhibition, and discovers that Nell and her grandfather wander without work or a destination.
- After consulting her driver, Mrs Jarley offers Nell a position, then includes her grandfather when they refuse to separate.
- The travelers accept guaranteed food and lodging, with Nell’s salary dependent on a trial of her abilities.
- Near midnight, they stop beside another caravan, where Nell prepares a bed for her grandfather.
- At the town gate, Nell hides while Quilp urges a boy carrying his trunk toward the London coach.
- Nell keeps the encounter secret and suffers frightened dreams before falling deeply asleep near daybreak.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Nell accepts a practical alternative to wandering. The arrangement keeps her and her grandfather together while providing food, shelter, and work.
Quick check
What does Mrs Jarley guarantee before testing Nell’s abilities?
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