David Copperfield · Chapter
Tommy Traddles explained
David visits his old schoolfellow Tommy Traddles in Camden Town, finding him living frugally in a single room.
What happens
David visits his old schoolfellow Tommy Traddles in Camden Town, finding him living frugally in a single room. Traddles recounts his struggles after being disinherited by his uncle, his work as a law copyist and compiler, and his engagement to a curate's daughter, Sophy, with the motto 'Wait and hope.' The chapter culminates in the surprise arrival of Mr. Micawber, who turns out to be Traddles's landlord, reuniting with David.
Themes in this chapter
Debt and Financial Instability
Traddles's account of scraping together a hundred pounds, his unpaid bills (e.g., the milkman), and his frugal living highlight the constant pressure of debt.
Friendship and Loyalty
David's visit to Traddles and their warm reunion underscore the enduring bond between old schoolfellows, despite years of separation.
Love and Marriage
Traddles's engagement to Sophy, with their patient motto 'Wait and hope,' contrasts with David's own romantic yearnings for Dora.
Characters to notice
- Tommy Traddles
David visits Traddles in his modest lodgings; Traddles shares his financial struggles, his engagement to Sophy, and his motto 'Wait and hope.'
- David Copperfield
David seeks out Traddles and is reminded of his own love for Dora during their conversation.
- Wilkins Micawber
Mr. Micawber is revealed as Traddles's landlord; he greets David with characteristic flourish and references their time in Canterbury.
- Mrs. Micawber
Mrs. Micawber is mentioned as part of the household downstairs, though she does not appear directly in the scene.
Key passages
“I am not a bad compiler, Copperfield, but I have no invention at all; not a particle. I suppose there never was a young man with less originality than I have.”
Traddles modestly admits he is a competent compiler but lacks creative originality.
Traddles's self-deprecating assessment of his own abilities.
“Wait and hope! We always say that. 'Wait and hope,' we always say. And she would wait, Copperfield, till she was sixty—any age you can mention—for me!”
Traddles describes his and Sophy's patient motto for their long engagement, emphasizing her unwavering loyalty.
The motto reflects Traddles's optimistic perseverance in love and life.
“I beg your pardon, Mr. Traddles, I was not aware that there was any individual, alien to this tenement, in your sanctum.”
Mr. Micawber apologizes upon entering, not realizing David was present.
Mr. Micawber's formal and theatrical manner of speaking.