Martin Chuzzlewit · Chapter
Mr. Jonas and his friend, arriving at a pleasant understanding, set forth upon an enterprise explained
Jonas Chuzzlewit and Montague Tigg (now Montague) have a tense confrontation after Jonas attempts to flee.
What happens
Jonas Chuzzlewit and Montague Tigg (now Montague) have a tense confrontation after Jonas attempts to flee. Montague accuses him of trying to jilt their partnership, but Jonas returns to avoid disturbance. They later dine with Dr. Jobling, who recounts a murder case involving a single drop of blood, which fascinates Jonas. Jonas's mood becomes boisterous and strange, and he roughly handles Bailey before they depart together.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Rising action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
This is the story's dramatic climax because it marks the emotional and psychological peak where Dickens public…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Deception and Trust
Montague and Jonas's partnership is built on mutual suspicion and hidden agendas; Montague accuses Jonas of attempted betrayal, while Jonas's return is motivated by fear of exposure.
- Greed and Corruption
The Anglo-Bengalee company is a front for financial manipulation; Jonas's involvement with Montague is driven by greed, leading to moral decay and violent fantasies.
Characters to notice
- Jonas Chuzzlewit
Shows a dark, brooding purpose after being caught attempting flight; becomes unnaturally self-possessed and later boisterous, fascinated by a murder story.
- Tigg Montague
Confronts Jonas about his attempted escape, asserts confidence in their partnership, and maintains a calm, manipulative demeanor.
- John Jobling
Dines with Jonas and Montague, tells a detailed story of a surgical murder, demonstrating his professional vanity.
- Bailey
Appears briefly as the carriage attendant; is roughly shoved aside by Jonas when he tries to join the journey.
Key passages
“He had the aspect of a man found out and held at bay; of being baffled, hunted, and beset; but there was now a dawning and increasing purpose in his face, which changed it very much.”
Jonas looked like someone exposed and cornered, yet a growing resolve was altering his expression.
Describes Jonas's shift from panic to a grim determination after being caught.
“I say that notwithstanding what has passed I will be plain with you.”
Despite everything, I intend to speak openly with you.
Montague insists on frankness despite Jonas's attempted flight.
“It was quite an operation in its way, and very neat.”
The murder was executed with surgical precision and skill.
Dr. Jobling praises the artistry of a murder committed by a medical professional.
