Mr. Flintwinch stares at the stranger in astonishment. The stranger is as shocked to see him. He asks Jeremiah how he got here.
Jeremiah looks over his shoulder, expecting to see someone behind him. He starts shaking Mistress Affery, accusing her of her tricks. The stranger intervenes. He points out that the person upstairs is wondering what is going on. Jeremiah Flintwinch assures Mrs. Clennam that all is well and sends Mrs. Affery up to her.
Jeremiah lights a candle, again assuring Mrs. Clennam that everything is all right, and leads the stranger into his office.
The stranger identifies himself as Mr. Blandois. Jeremiah doesn't recognize the name. Mr. Blandois explains to Jeremiah that he initially mistook him for a friend of his in the dark. He presents Mr. Flintwinch with a letter.
