Martin Chuzzlewit · Chapter
XLV explained
Tom Pinch and his sister Ruth enjoy a domestic evening with John Westlock, discussing Tom's mysterious errand involving a letter and the old lady Mrs.
What happens
Tom Pinch and his sister Ruth enjoy a domestic evening with John Westlock, discussing Tom's mysterious errand involving a letter and the old lady Mrs. Gamp. Tom resolves to visit Mrs. Todgers's to explain his role to Mercy Pecksniff, while John Westlock expresses concern about dark dealings. The chapter also captures the tender, romantic tension between John and Ruth.
Themes in this chapter
Deception and Trust
Tom is troubled by his unwitting role in a secretive errand, and John suspects foul play.
Family and Dysfunction
Tom's concern for Mercy Pecksniff reflects the strained family ties and moral obligations.
Characters to notice
- Tom Pinch
Tom reflects on his commission to deliver a letter and plans to explain himself to Mercy Pecksniff.
- Ruth Pinch
Ruth meets Tom at Fountain Court, blushes at John Westlock's approach, and joins them for dinner.
- John Westlock
John hosts Tom and Ruth for dinner, shows deep interest in Tom's story, and hints at dark secrets.
- Mercy Pecksniff
Mentioned as a possible contact at Mrs. Todgers's whom Tom hopes to see.
- Sarah Gamp
Identified by John Westlock as the old lady involved in the mysterious letter.
Key passages
“I shall remonstrate with my landlord, of course... on his having asked me to execute such an unpleasant commission.”
Tom plans to confront his landlord about being asked to deliver a troubling letter.
Tom's determination to clear his conscience.
“The Temple fountain might have leaped up twenty feet to greet the spring of hopeful maidenhood...”
The narrator poetically describes Ruth's bright presence enlivening the gloomy Temple courtyard.
A lyrical tribute to Ruth's innocence and charm.