Fifty-two people were due to be executed that day. New occupants for their cells have already been appointed. The rich man’s money does not save him any more than the poor man’s obscurity.
Darnay realizes he is doomed and that no one can help him. He has difficulty accepting his fate, particularly with a wife and child. He is comforted in knowing that he is not the only person to be falsely accused and condemned. He tries to put on a brave façade to comfort his loved ones.
He writes a long letter to Lucie. He tells her he was ignorant of her father’s imprisonment and the responsibility of his family for it. Her father had made him promise to conceal his real name. He begs her not to find out if her father knew the paper still existed. He tells her he wants her to overcome her sorrow and devote herself to their child. He also writes to Dr. Manette and to Mr. Lorry.
Sydney Carton enters his cell and orders him to remove his boots. He tells him to put on his boots. Darnay is doubtful of this plan. Carton orders him to exchange clothes with him and to do his hair differently.
Carton then orders him to dictate a letter. He asks the person to remember the promise he gave her long ago. He is thankful that he has the opportunity to keep that promise. Carton clamps a handkerchief with ether over Darnay’s mouth. He calls to Barsad. He tells him to pretend that Darnay is him, and to say that he passed out.
A jailer comes for Carton later and puts him with the rest of the condemned. Another prisoner realizes that he is not Darnay. He tells her he is dying for him for the sake of his wife and child.
At the barrier, papers are being presented. Dr. Manette is still afflicted. Lucie, her child, Mr. Carton, and Mr. Lorry are identified. They are allowed to leave. It is an uneasy journey. They fear they are being tricked by their drivers or being pursued. Towards the evening, Darnay starts to wake up.