The Pickwick Papers · Chapter
LVI explained
Mr.
What happens
Mr. Pickwick, reflecting on how to provide for the young couple, is visited by Sam Weller and his father. After a conversation, Mr. Pickwick proposes to help Sam marry Mary by setting him up in a business, but Sam refuses, insisting on staying with Mr. Pickwick. Mr. Pickwick eventually agrees, and Sam later kicks the fat boy for admiring Mary.
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 Falling action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This excerpt marks the dramatic climax because it delivers the emotional and psychological peak of Sam Weller’…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Friendship and Loyalty
Sam's refusal to leave Mr. Pickwick demonstrates deep loyalty and friendship, prioritizing his master's well-being over his own marriage.
- Charity and Benevolence
Mr. Pickwick's offer to set Sam up in business and provide for his future exemplifies his benevolent and charitable nature.
- Love and Marriage
The chapter centers on Sam and Mary's potential marriage, with Mr. Pickwick's support and Sam's eventual acceptance.
Characters to notice
- Samuel Pickwick
Mr. Pickwick is alone, musing on how to provide for the young couple, and later proposes to help Sam marry Mary.
- Sam Weller
Sam returns home and, with his father, discusses his future with Mr. Pickwick, ultimately refusing to leave his master's service.
- Tony Weller
The elder Mr. Weller accompanies his son, initially struggling to speak, but eventually supports Sam's decision to stay with Mr. Pickwick.
- Mary
Mary announces Sam's arrival and later is the subject of Sam's marriage plans and the fat boy's admiration.
- Emily Wardle
Emily Wardle sends a note via the fat boy, mentioned as part of the chapter's events.
- Mr. Wardle
Mr. Wardle is referenced indirectly through the note from Emily Wardle.
Key passages
“It is the best way in which I could reward him for his attachment and fidelity; let it be so, in Heaven’s name.”
Mr. Pickwick decides that helping Sam marry Mary is the best reward for his loyalty.
Mr. Pickwick resolves to support Sam's marriage as a reward for his faithful service.
“I say it can’t be done. Wot’s to become of you, Sir?”
Sam refuses Mr. Pickwick's offer, worried about who will take care of his master.
Sam declines the marriage proposal because he feels responsible for Mr. Pickwick's well-being.
“Sam Veller, as you took from the old inn in the Borough, sticks by you, come what may; and let ev’rythin’ and ev’rybody do their wery fiercest, nothin’ shall ever pervent it!”
Sam vows to remain with Mr. Pickwick no matter what happens.
Sam declares his unwavering loyalty to Mr. Pickwick, refusing to leave his service.
