Nicholas Nickleby · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for Nicholas Nickleby by Charles Dickens.
Chapter 1
Preface to the First Edition
In the preface, Dickens addresses claims from Yorkshire schoolmasters that Mr. Squeers is based on them, asserting that Squeers represents a class of brutal, ignorant schoolmasters rather than any individual. He emphasizes that the horrors depicted at Dotheboys Hall are understated compared to real atrocities. He also reveals that the Cheeryble brothers are drawn from real, benevolent individuals. The preface concludes with a farewell to readers, reflecting on the intimate bond between a periodical writer and his audience.
Chapter 2
Preface to the First Cheap Edition
In this preface, Dickens explains the origins of 'Nicholas Nickleby,' detailing his investigation into the brutal Yorkshire schools that inspired the novel. He describes his journey to Yorkshire under a false pretext to gather information, recounts a warning from a local man about the schools, and defends the realism of his characters, noting that the Cheeryble brothers were based on real people. He also addresses the public's response and clarifies that Squeers represents a class of abusers rather than a single individual.
Chapter 3
Nicholas Nickleby
The opening chapter introduces the Nickleby family after the death of Mr. Godfrey Nickleby, leaving his son Nicholas Nickleby with a small inheritance. Nicholas marries and has a large family, but after his death, his widow and children—Nicholas, Kate, and Mrs. Nickleby—are left in reduced circumstances. The chapter sets the stage for the family's struggles and the introduction of the miserly uncle, Ralph Nickleby.
Chapter 4
I
The chapter introduces the Nickleby family history, beginning with Mr. Godfrey Nickleby's marriage and his unexpected inheritance from his uncle. It details the contrasting natures of his two sons: Ralph, who becomes a ruthless money-lender, and Nicholas, who lives a quiet country life. After the death of their father, Ralph pursues wealth in London while Nicholas marries and has two children, Nicholas and Kate. When Nicholas's father loses his fortune through speculation, he dies of grief, leaving his widow and children destitute.
Chapter 5
Of Mr. Ralph Nickleby, and his establishments, and his undertakings, and of a great joint stock company of vast national importance.
This chapter introduces Mr. Ralph Nickleby, a cold and cunning man who lives in Golden Square and conducts mysterious business. His clerk, Newman Noggs, a former gentleman fallen into poverty, serves him. Ralph receives a visit from Mr. Bonney, who pitches a speculative scheme: the 'United Metropolitan Improved Hot Muffin and Crumpet Baking and Punctual Delivery Company.' Ralph agrees to attend a public meeting, revealing his involvement in dubious financial ventures.
Chapter 6
Mr. Ralph Nickleby receives sad tidings of his brother, but bears up nobly against the intelligence communicated to him. The reader is informed how he liked Nicholas, who is herein introduced, and how kindly he proposed to make his fortune at once.
Ralph Nickleby learns of his brother's death from Newman Noggs and coldly receives the news. He visits the Nickleby family's lodgings, where he meets his sister-in-law, his niece Kate, and his nephew Nicholas. After a tense interview, Ralph arranges for Kate to be apprenticed at a boarding-school and decides to send Nicholas to work for Wackford Squeers at Dotheboys Hall.
Chapter 7
Chapter IV
Nicholas Nickleby secures a position as an assistant master at Dotheboys Hall through his uncle Ralph's arrangement with the school's proprietor, Wackford Squeers. Meanwhile, Squeers negotiates with Mr. Snawley for the enrollment of his two sons, and is shown mistreating a young boy. Nicholas, unaware of the school's true nature, eagerly accepts the opportunity.
Chapter 8
Nicholas starts for Yorkshire. Of his leave-taking and his fellow-travellers, and what befell them on the road.
Nicholas Nickleby bids a sorrowful farewell to his mother and sister, and departs London for Yorkshire to work as an assistant at Dotheboys Hall. He encounters Miss La Creevy, who promises to look after Kate, and then meets Mr. Squeers and his five starved pupils at the Saracen's Head. Squeers feeds the boys a meager breakfast of watered milk and bread, preaching moral precepts while gorging himself. Ralph Nickleby arrives with Mrs. Nickleby and Kate, and after a tense exchange, Nicholas boards the coach with Squeers and the boys.
Chapter 9
Chapter VI
During a coach journey, Nicholas Nickleby and Mr. Squeers travel with a group of passengers. Squeers shamelessly advertises his school, handing out cards while Nicholas blushes with shame. The passengers pass the time with conversation and a story, the 'Baron of Grogzwig,' told by a merry-faced gentleman. Nicholas falls asleep and wakes to find the storyteller and a grey-haired gentleman have departed. The chapter ends with Nicholas, Squeers, and the boys arriving at the George and New Inn, Greta Bridge.
Chapter 10
Mr. and Mrs. Squeers at Home
Nicholas arrives at Dotheboys Hall with Mr. Squeers and a group of boys. He is introduced to the bleak, cold house and meets Smike, a pitiful, lame boy. After a meager supper, Nicholas is given a straw mattress for the night. He resolves to endure his situation for the sake of his mother and sister, and discovers a mysterious letter from Newman Noggs that had fallen from his coat.
Chapter 11
Of the internal economy of Dotheboys Hall
Nicholas wakes at Dotheboys Hall to a freezing morning and the harsh realities of life under Mr. and Mrs. Squeers. He witnesses the cruel and exploitative treatment of the boys, including the forced administration of brimstone and treacle to spoil their appetites and save money. Nicholas meets Smike, a broken-spirited drudge, who confides his despair and fear of dying alone and unloved. Despite his disgust, Nicholas resolves to stay, hoping to do some good, but worries about his sister Kate's fate under their uncle Ralph's control.
Chapter 12
Of Miss Squeers, Mrs. Squeers, Master Squeers, and Mr. Squeers; and of various matters and persons connected no less with the Squeerses than Nicholas Nickleby
In this chapter, the Squeers family discusses Nicholas Nickleby at home. Mrs. Squeers expresses her hatred for him, calling him proud and haughty, while Mr. Squeers defends keeping him as a cheap assistant. Their son, Master Wackford Squeers, eagerly anticipates taking over the school and abusing the boys. Later, Nicholas joins the family for tea, where he meets John Browdie and Miss Price. A tense exchange between Nicholas and Browdie nearly leads to a fight, but it is defused by the women. Miss Squeers shows interest in Nicholas, and the servant praises his appearance.
Chapter 13
Chapter X
Ralph Nickleby arranges a position for Kate at Madame Mantalini's dressmaking establishment, persuading Mrs. Nickleby with visions of wealth and status. Kate reluctantly agrees, and Ralph escorts her to Cavendish Square. The chapter also includes a scene with Miss La Creevy painting Kate's portrait, discussing the art of miniature painting.
Chapter 14
Newman Noggs inducts Mrs. and Miss Nickleby into their new dwelling in the city
Kate and Mrs. Nickleby move into a gloomy old house in Thames Street provided by Ralph Nickleby. Kate reflects anxiously on her new career at Madame Mantalini's, while her mother offers misguided optimism. Newman Noggs assists with the move, showing unexpected kindness and respect, and Kate senses a mystery about him.
Chapter 15
Chapter XII
Nicholas endures mistreatment at Dotheboys Hall, where his kindness to Smike only leads to increased cruelty toward the boy. Smike struggles with his studies but clings to Nicholas as his only hope. Meanwhile, Fanny Squeers and Tilda Price reconcile after a quarrel over Nicholas, and Fanny feigns a faint to force an encounter with him, leading to an awkward confrontation where Nicholas denies any romantic interest in her.
Chapter 16
XIII
Nicholas awakens to find Smike has run away from Dotheboys Hall. Squeers, enraged, retrieves Smike and prepares a brutal public flogging. Unable to bear the cruelty, Nicholas intervenes, thrashes Squeers, and escapes the school. He encounters John Browdie on the road, who offers him kindness and support.
Chapter 17
XIV
The chapter describes a lively family gathering at the Kenwigs' home, where Mr. Lillyvick, the collector, is honored. The evening includes a dance by Morleena Kenwigs and a dramatic recitation by Miss Petowker, while Newman Noggs prepares punch. The scene then shifts to a dilapidated street in Golden Square, where Newman Noggs and a neighbor, Mr. Crowl, interact in their shabby garret lodgings.
Chapter 18
XV
Nicholas and Smike arrive at Newman Noggs' lodging, exhausted from their journey. Newman forces them to eat and drink, then reveals that Ralph Nickleby received a letter from Squeers detailing Nicholas's violent assault at Dotheboys Hall. Despite Newman's reluctance, Nicholas insists on hearing the truth and reaffirms his lack of regret for thrashing Squeers.
Chapter 19
XVI
Nicholas seeks employment, first visiting a General Agency Office where he is intrigued by a beautiful young girl. He then applies to Mr. Gregsbury, a member of parliament, for a secretary position but declines the low pay of fifteen shillings a week. Returning home dejected, Newman Noggs informs him of a tutoring opportunity with the Kenwigs family, teaching French to their four daughters for five shillings a week, which Nicholas eagerly accepts.
Chapter 20
Follows the fortunes of Miss Nickleby
Kate Nickleby begins her employment at Madame Mantalini's dressmaking establishment, facing the harsh realities of working life. She arrives early, navigates the condescension of the footman, overhears a quarrel between Mr. and Mrs. Mantalini, and is introduced to the bustling, sycophantic Miss Knag. Kate's mourning for her father draws sympathy from some workers but also exposes her to the coldness of the world.
Chapter 21
Miss Knag, after doting on Kate Nickleby for three whole days, makes up her mind to hate her forevermore. The causes which led Miss Knag to form this resolution.
Kate Nickleby begins her work at Madame Mantalini's dressmaking establishment. Miss Knag, the forewoman, initially feigns affection for Kate after witnessing her awkwardness, but her true jealousy and hypocrisy emerge as she secretly plots to keep Kate in the background. The chapter explores the superficiality of charity and the petty cruelties of workplace dynamics, culminating in a visit to Miss Knag's brother's shop where Mrs. Nickleby's rambling conversation and Miss Knag's invented reminiscences highlight the theme of appearance versus reality.
Chapter 22
Descriptive of a Dinner at Mr. Ralph Nickleby's, and of the manner in which the company entertained themselves, before dinner, at dinner, and after dinner
Kate Nickleby endures a week of hostility from Miss Knag and the other young ladies at Madame Mantalini's. On Saturday, she finds her mother in conversation with Ralph Nickleby, who invites Kate to dine at his house the following evening. Despite her mother's excitement, Kate is uneasy. At the dinner, Ralph introduces her to a group of coarse, insolent gentlemen, including Lord Frederick Verisopht and Sir Mulberry Hawk, who treat her with familiarity and disrespect. Kate feels humiliated and indignant, but suppresses her anger.
Chapter 23
Chapter XX
Ralph Nickleby confronts Mrs. Nickleby and Kate, accusing Nicholas of assault, theft, and running away with a boy. Nicholas returns and defends himself, explaining he punished a cruel master and returned a ring. Ralph disowns him, and Nicholas decides to leave London to avoid further conflict.
Chapter 24
Madam Mantalini finds herself in a situation of some difficulty, and Miss Nickleby finds herself in no situation at all.
Kate Nickleby returns to work at Madame Mantalini's after a brief illness, but finds the atmosphere hostile due to Miss Knag's continued ill-will. Madame Mantalini is visibly worried and irritable, and Mr. Mantalini's frivolous and manipulative behavior exacerbates her distress. Kate is later dismissed when Madame Mantalini's business fails—a failure secretly orchestrated by Ralph Nickleby. Following this, Mrs. Nickleby discovers an advertisement for a genteel companion, and Kate, with Ralph's approval, applies to Mrs. Wititterly of Cadogan Place, a woman of affected gentility and faded elegance.
Chapter 25
Nicholas, accompanied by Smike, sallies forth to seek his fortune. He encounters Mr. Vincent Crummles; and who he was, is herein made manifest.
Nicholas, with only twenty shillings to his name, leaves London with Smike to seek his fortune. He bids a silent farewell to his mother and sister, and sets out with Newman Noggs accompanying them part of the way. After a night in Godalming, they continue their journey and encounter Mr. Vincent Crummles, a theatrical manager who is immediately struck by Smike's potential as an actor. Over supper and punch, Crummles offers Nicholas a position in his troupe, though Nicholas remains anxious about his uncertain future.
Chapter 26
Treats of the company of Mr. Vincent Crummles, and of his affairs, domestic and theatrical
Nicholas travels with Mr. Vincent Crummles and his theatrical family to Portsmouth, where he is introduced to the shabby reality of the theatre. He meets Mrs. Crummles and the infant phenomenon, and is given a French play to translate and adapt for the company. After dinner, he secures modest lodgings with Smike.
Chapter 27
Of the great bespeak for Miss Snevellicci, and the first appearance of Nicholas upon any stage.
Nicholas is visited by actors Mr. Folair and Mr. Lenville, who discuss their roles in his new play. He then accompanies Miss Snevellicci and the Crummles phenomenon to solicit subscriptions for her benefit night, including a visit to the pretentious Mr. and Mrs. Curdle. Later, Nicholas watches the performance of a melodrama in which Miss Snevellicci and the company perform, and Mr. Crummles proposes staging Nicholas's play on her bespeak night.
Chapter 28
Concerning a young lady from London, who joins the company, and an elderly admirer who follows in her train; with an affecting ceremony consequent on their arrival.
The Crummles theatre troupe enjoys success, and Nicholas learns that the celebrated Miss Henrietta Petowker is joining the company. Mr. Lillyvick, the water-rate collector, reveals his secret plan to marry her, fearing the jealousy of his niece's family. The wedding takes place with much ceremony and celebration, after which Nicholas helps Smike learn his role as the Apothecary for Romeo and Juliet, leading to a successful performance.
Chapter 29
Chapter XXVI
Mrs. Nickleby, flattered by the attentions of Sir Mulberry Hawk and Lord Frederick Verisopht, muses on Kate's prospects while Ralph Nickleby grapples with his conscience over his role in exposing his niece to their predatory interest. Ralph reluctantly reveals Kate's address to Lord Frederick, who seeks to pursue her behind Sir Mulberry's back. The chapter ends with the two noblemen escorting Mrs. Nickleby home, leaving Ralph to reflect on his calculated schemes.
Chapter 30
Mrs. Nickleby Becomes Acquainted with Messrs. Pyke and Pluck, Whose Affection and Interest Are Beyond All Bounds
Mrs. Nickleby is visited by Messrs. Pyke and Pluck, who flatter her and invite her and Kate to the theater on behalf of Sir Mulberry Hawk. She indulges in fantasies of Kate marrying Sir Mulberry and becoming Lady Mulberry Hawk. At the theater, Kate is forcibly separated from her mother and escorted by Sir Mulberry, who harasses her despite her protests. Kate threatens him with her brother's vengeance.
Chapter 31
Miss Nickleby Appeals to Her Uncle for Protection
Kate Nickleby, driven to desperation by Sir Mulberry Hawk's relentless harassment and the lack of support from those around her, confronts her uncle Ralph Nickleby and begs him to release her from her degrading situation. Despite her heartfelt plea, Ralph refuses, citing his business connections with the men and advising her to endure the persecution.
Chapter 32
Of the proceedings of Nicholas, and certain internal divisions in the company of Mr. Vincent Crummles.
Nicholas enjoys continued success with the Crummles troupe in Portsmouth, earning twenty pounds from a benefit performance. He repays his debt to John Browdie and sends half his earnings to Newman Noggs for Kate, while concealing his acting work. Smike expresses curiosity about Nicholas's sister and learns of Ralph Nickleby's villainy. Mr. Folair delivers a challenge from Mr. Lenville, who is jealous of Nicholas's popularity. Nicholas calmly knocks Lenville down when he attempts to pull his nose, and Lenville apologizes under pressure from his wife. Nicholas then receives a worrying letter from Newman Noggs hinting that Kate may soon need his protection, prompting him to consider leaving the troupe.
Chapter 33
Nicholas Takes His Leave of the Theatre
Nicholas announces his departure from Mr. Crummles' theatrical company, leading to a series of farewell performances. He receives a letter from Newman Noggs urging his immediate return to London, prompting him to leave abruptly despite Crummles' attempts to keep him. Nicholas and Smike hastily depart, encountering Miss Snevellicci and her family before their journey.
Chapter 34
Of Ralph Nickleby and Newman Noggs, and some wise precautions, the success or failure of which will appear in the sequel.
Ralph Nickleby, preoccupied with thoughts of his niece Kate, experiences a rare moment of introspection and loneliness, but quickly suppresses it upon noticing Newman Noggs watching him. Ralph sends Newman on an errand, but Newman instead visits Miss La Creevy to discuss a plan to protect Kate from Ralph's schemes, deciding to keep Mrs. Nickleby away from home.
Chapter 35
XXXII
Nicholas and Smike arrive in London, where Nicholas's anxiety to see his sister drives him to seek Newman Noggs. He overhears a conversation at a tavern in which Sir Mulberry Hawk and his companions mock Kate Nickleby and reveal Ralph's villainy. Confronting Sir Mulberry, Nicholas challenges him and a violent struggle ensues, resulting in Nicholas being thrown from the carriage and injured.
Chapter 36
In which Mr. Ralph Nickleby is relieved, by a very expeditious process, from all commerce with his relations.
Nicholas returns to Newman Noggs and Smike, bruised from his fight with Sir Mulberry Hawk. After learning the full extent of Ralph's villainy, he arranges for his mother and sister to leave their respective residences immediately. He sends a letter to Ralph renouncing him and all ties, and Kate is quickly removed from the Wititterlys'. Ralph reads the letter with cold fury, while Newman Noggs watches in silent satisfaction.
Chapter 37
XXXIV
Ralph Nickleby's hatred for Nicholas intensifies as he reflects on comparisons between them. Mr. Mantalini visits to discount bills, followed by Madame Mantalini. Squeers reveals details about Smike's mysterious past, and Ralph plots revenge through the boy.
Chapter 38
Smike becomes known to Mrs. Nickleby and Kate. Nicholas also meets with new acquaintances. Brighter days seem to dawn upon the family.
Nicholas brings Smike to meet his mother and sister, and they warmly accept him. Nicholas considers his future and decides to try the Register Office again, where he encounters a kind-hearted old gentleman. The Nickleby family settles into a cottage, finding joy and peace in their new home, while Ralph Nickleby remains isolated and miserable.
Chapter 39
Chapter XXXVI
Mr. Kenwigs muffles the knocker in a white kid glove to announce the birth of his new son. Nicholas delivers the shocking news that Mr. Lillyvick has married Henrietta Petowker, causing Mr. Kenwigs to fly into a rage and lament the loss of his relative's inheritance. After the commotion subsides, Mr. Kenwigs is put to bed, and the household settles down with Mrs. Kenwigs reported as well as can be expected.
Chapter 40
XXXVII
Nicholas gains further favor with the Cheeryble brothers and Tim Linkinwater. The brothers host a grand annual banquet. Upon returning home late, Nicholas learns from his mother that a mysterious neighbor has been making romantic advances toward her, including gifts of vegetables and a proposal of marriage and elopement.
Chapter 41
XXXVIII
Sir Mulberry Hawk, recovering from his injuries, vents his fury against Nicholas Nickleby, but Lord Frederick Verisopht unexpectedly defends Nicholas and his sister Kate, asserting their virtue and condemning cowardly attacks. Meanwhile, Kate enjoys newfound tranquility living with her brother, while Miss La Creevy observes a troubling change in Smike, who has grown more conscious of his intellectual limitations and increasingly dejected.
Chapter 42
Chapter XXXIX
John and Tilda Browdie, along with Fanny Squeers, arrive in London. They meet Wackford Squeers, who boasts of having captured Smike and plans to take him back to Dotheboys Hall. John Browdie feigns illness to get access to Smike, then secretly releases him by removing the lock from the door.
Chapter 43
XL
Nicholas reflects on the failed attempt to abduct Smike, attributing the scheme to Squeers. At the Cheeryble office, Tim Linkinwater shares a touching story about a sickly, bedridden boy who tends flowers. Newman Noggs reveals he has arranged a secret interview between Nicholas and a young lady, but the meeting is interrupted by the sudden return of her father, Mr. Bobster, forcing Nicholas and Newman to flee.
Chapter 44
Containing some romantic passages between Mrs. Nickleby and the gentleman in the small-clothes next door.
Mrs. Nickleby, after her conversation with Nicholas, begins to adorn herself more attractively, drawing the attention of the elderly gentleman next door. He makes bizarre and flirtatious overtures from over the garden wall, tossing vegetables and speaking in riddles. Kate is alarmed and urges her mother to flee, but Mrs. Nickleby is flattered and reluctant to retreat, reminiscing about her own youthful suitors.
Chapter 45
XLII
Nicholas Nickleby visits John and Tilda Browdie for a convivial meal, but the evening is disrupted by the unexpected arrival of the Squeers family. Fanny Squeers confronts Tilda, accusing her of betrayal and hypocrisy, leading to a heated argument. John Browdie defends his wife, and Nicholas remains a calm observer amidst the chaos.
Chapter 46
Chapter XLIII
Nicholas meets Frank Cheeryble, the nephew of his employers, and they become fast friends. Nicholas begins to feel jealous of Frank's possible interest in the mysterious young lady he admires. Frank visits the Nickleby home, charming Kate and Mrs. Nickleby. The day ends with a happy family gathering, though Smike remains a sorrowful figure.
Chapter 47
Mr. Ralph Nickleby cuts an old acquaintance. It would also appear from the contents hereof, that a joke, even between husband and wife, may be sometimes carried too far.
Ralph Nickleby encounters a former employee, Brooker, who attempts to blackmail him with a secret hold over him. Ralph refuses to be intimidated, dismissing Brooker's threats and warning him away. Later, Ralph learns from Newman Noggs that Sir Mulberry Hawk has left for France due to illness, avoiding any retaliation for his drubbing. Ralph fumes over what he sees as the 'Devil's luck' protecting Nicholas.
Chapter 48
XLV
John Browdie celebrates his happiness with the Nickleby family. Mrs. Nickleby's social anxieties are humorously depicted as she arranges a tea visit with the Browdies. Squeers and Snawley attempt to reclaim Smike, but Nicholas refuses to give him up. Ralph Nickleby threatens Nicholas with legal and financial ruin, while Squeers mocks them from the doorway.
Chapter 49
Throws some light upon Nicholas's Love; but whether for good or evil the reader must determine
Nicholas confides in Mr. Charles Cheeryble about Smike's history and his decision to protect Smike from his father. Mr. Cheeryble defends Nicholas's actions, arguing that natural affection must be nurtured. He reveals that Ralph Nickleby visited to complain about Nicholas but was rebuffed. Nicholas then visits Madeline Bray in the King's Bench Rules, where he sees her caring for her sick father. Later, Mr. Cheeryble explains Madeline's difficult situation and proposes that Nicholas pose as a buyer of her artwork to provide discreet financial aid.
Chapter 50
Mr. Ralph Nickleby has some confidential intercourse with another old friend. They concert between them a project, which promises well for both.
Ralph Nickleby and old Arthur Gride conspire to secure Madeline Bray as Gride's wife, leveraging Bray's debts and Gride's knowledge of a hidden property to force the marriage.
Chapter 51
XLVIII
Nicholas, heavy-hearted after his visit to Madeline Bray, returns to the Cheeryble countinghouse and struggles with his feelings of hopeless love. On his way home, he spots a playbill announcing the last appearance of Mr. Vincent Crummles and decides to attend the farewell supper. There he reunites with the Crummles family and their theatrical friends, witnesses speeches and toasts, and gives parting gifts. The chapter ends with a poignant farewell, as Crummles shows genuine emotion at their separation.
Chapter 52
Chapter XLIX
Nicholas is increasingly preoccupied with Madeline Bray, while Mrs. Nickleby and Kate live quietly, troubled only by Mr. Snawley's legal actions and Smike's declining health. Smike shows signs of a fatal disease, causing anxiety. Mrs. Nickleby mistakes an old gentleman's advances, leading to a comical confrontation where he calls her 'Cat' and she faints. Frank Cheeryble and Tim Linkinwater escort the man away. The Cheeryble brothers continue their kindness, and Frank's frequent visits spark Mrs. Nickleby's comments about his attentiveness, causing Kate to blush.
Chapter 53
Chapter L
The chapter describes a vibrant racecourse at Hampton, contrasting the lively, colorful scene with the darker undertones of gambling and moral decay. It follows Sir Mulberry Hawk and Lord Frederick Verisopht as they prepare for a duel, with the latter grappling with regret and the realization of his companion's true nature.
Chapter 54
Chapter LI
Arthur Gride is revealed as a miserly old man preparing for his wedding to Madeline Bray, a scheme orchestrated by Ralph Nickleby. Newman Noggs, acting as a messenger, discovers Ralph's letter outlining the plot and later reveals it to Nicholas, who rushes out in a fury.
Chapter 55
LII
Nicholas despairs of rescuing Madeline Bray but resolves to reason with her directly. Newman Noggs encourages him to hope and act. Meanwhile, the Kenwigses confront Mr. Lillyvick about his marriage to Henrietta Petowker, only to learn she has eloped with a half-pay captain, leading to reconciliation.
Chapter 56
LIII
Nicholas, desperate to save Madeline Bray from marrying the odious Arthur Gride, confronts Gride at his home. Despite his passionate pleas, Madeline remains resolute in her decision to marry Gride to secure her father's freedom and comfort. Gride, triumphant and malicious, taunts Nicholas and threatens to raise an alarm, forcing Nicholas to leave in frustration.
Chapter 57
The Crisis of the Project and Its Result
On the morning of Arthur Gride's forced marriage to Madeline Bray, Gride nervously prepares while his housekeeper Peg Sliderskew grumbles resentfully. Gride meets with Ralph Nickleby, recounting how Nicholas tried to intimidate him the previous night. Ralph taunts Gride about jealousy and the risk of losing his bride. They proceed to the Bray residence, where Madeline's father, Mr. Bray, expresses guilt but is persuaded by Ralph that the marriage is advantageous. The household is mournful and silent, contrasting with the intended wedding.
Chapter 58
LV
Mrs. Nickleby remains confused and skeptical about the situation with Madeline Bray, despite explanations from Nicholas and Kate. She argues with Kate about the circumstances, drawing irrelevant comparisons. When Nicholas and Kate bring Madeline home, Mrs. Nickleby becomes supportive and takes credit for the plan. Madeline falls dangerously ill from the shock of her father's death, and Kate nurses her devotedly. Mrs. Nickleby, meanwhile, schemes to uncover Frank Cheeryble's interest in Kate, using various tactics and hinting at other suitors. She eventually tries to sound out Nicholas about Frank, but Nicholas responds lightly.
Chapter 59
LVI
Ralph Nickleby, enraged by his nephew's interference and the sudden death that thwarted his scheme, plots revenge. He enlists Arthur Gride and later Wackford Squeers to retrieve a stolen deed that would secure an inheritance for Nicholas and Madeline. Ralph manipulates Squeers with promises of money and appeals to his greed, aiming to destroy the document and ruin Nicholas's prospects.
Chapter 60
How Ralph Nickleby's auxiliary went about his work, and how he prospered with it.
On a dark, wet night, Wackford Squeers, disguised and hiding in a poor Lambeth attic, reflects on his long collaboration with Ralph Nickleby to track down Peg Sliderskew. He drinks heavily, reads a letter from Dotheboys Hall, and then visits Peg to examine the stolen deeds, hoping to secure his hundred-pound reward.
Chapter 61
LVIII
Nicholas takes Smike to the countryside where they spent their childhood, visiting old haunts and the grave of Nicholas's father. Smike, dying, confesses his secret love for Kate and asks to be buried with a lock of her hair. He dies peacefully, having seen a vision of Eden.
Chapter 62
LIX
Ralph Nickleby, plagued by sleeplessness and paranoia, confronts Mr. Charles Cheeryble, who has come on an errand of mercy. Newman Noggs reveals his long-hidden spying and accuses Ralph of conspiracy. The Cheerybles and Noggs lay out the evidence against Ralph, including Snawley's confession, exposing the plot involving Squeers and the false claim on Smike.
Chapter 63
LX
Ralph Nickleby visits the imprisoned Wackford Squeers, who reveals the secret of Smike's true parentage and the document that could ruin them both. Squeers, drunk and defiant, threatens to implicate Ralph if things go wrong, while Ralph tries to maintain control.
Chapter 64
LXI
Nicholas returns home after Smike's death, and the family mourns together. He resolves to confess his love for Madeline Bray to the Cheeryble brothers, believing it dishonorable to pursue her given his circumstances. Kate supports his decision, and they reaffirm their bond.
Chapter 65
Ralph Makes One Last Appointment—and Keeps It
Ralph Nickleby, haunted by guilt and despair after learning that Smike was his son and that he has died loving Nicholas, returns home through a dark and stormy night. He is tormented by visions of a suicide's grave and his own ruin. In his attic, he contemplates suicide, receives a message from the Cheeryble brothers, and closes himself off, never to be seen alive again.
Chapter 66
Chapter LXIII
The Cheeryble brothers host a dinner party where they reveal their plans for the happiness of the young people. Nicholas and Frank are reconciled and informed about Madeline's inheritance. Tim Linkinwater proposes to Miss La Creevy, and the chapter ends with multiple engagements and a celebration of love and friendship.
Chapter 67
An Old Acquaintance is Recognised Under Melancholy Circumstances, and Dotheboys Hall Breaks Up Forever
Nicholas, now happy and prosperous, feels his joy is incomplete without sharing it with his old friend John Browdie. He travels to Yorkshire to visit John and Mrs. Browdie, and during his journey, he and Kate encounter Mr. Mantalini working in a cellar. John Browdie rides to Dotheboys Hall to find the school in a state of rebellion after news of Squeers's downfall. The boys riot, and eventually the school breaks up forever, with the boys being taken away or lost.
Chapter 68
Conclusion
The novel concludes with the marriages of Nicholas to Madeline and Kate to Frank Cheeryble, as well as the quiet wedding of Tim Linkinwater and Miss La Creevy. Nicholas invests his wife's fortune in the Cheeryble firm, which becomes Cheeryble and Nickleby. Ralph's estate goes to the state after his suicide, Arthur Gride is murdered, and Sir Mulberry Hawk dies in debtors' prison. Nicholas buys his father's old house, and Newman Noggs becomes a beloved figure to the children. Smike's grave is tended by the children, who remember him fondly.
