The Old Curiosity Shop

Later that same morning, violent knocking at the shop door wakes up Mr. Quilp and Mr. Brass. Quilp realizes the key is missing, and he is even further surprised to see the locks are already unfastened. He at first thinks the person knocking is his wife, and he launches himself through the doorway with the intent to stun her. As soon as Quilp is through the door, he himself is beaten and stunned. To his surprise, it is Dick Swiveller delivering the beating. Dick explains that he knocked so aggressively because he felt Mrs. Quilp, who arrived before him, was knocking too softly. Dick is here to see Nell and check on the grandfather; the three enter the house and Mrs. Quilp goes upstairs to announce Dick’s visit. She returns quickly, as Nell and her grandfather are already gone. Dick leaves as Kit arrives. Kit fights Tom Scott to win the linnet bird Nell left behind, which Tom and Mr. Quilp plan to kill. Kit brings the bird home and hangs its cage near the window.

Kit wanders the streets looking for quick work so he can buy birdfeed and other necessities for his family. He soon encounters an elderly couple, the Garlands, whose carriage is pulled by a rather obstinate horse; Kit offers to mind their horse while they visit a notary, Mr.