Mr. Pancks lodeges with an accountant Mr. Rugg and his family. Miss Rugg inherited her property by winning a breach of promise of marriage case with the local baker. The incident has caused the youth to torment the baker.
Mr. Pancsk dines with the Ruggs. His single status is not perceived as a threat. Before, he merely slept and dined there. However, his interests in the Dorrit family now requires him to consult Mr. Rugg.
Mr. Pancks gets acquainted with the Chiverys, particularly young John. He gets the young man tohelp him on mysterious missions. Mrs. Chivery protests are quieted by seeing her son's spirits improve-and also because Mr. Pancks pays her for taking her helper in the store.
Mr. Pancks invites John to dinner. The Ruggs are sympathetic. They are aware of his situation. John
