David has been married for 10 happy years and is the father of numerous children, including 3 girls named Agnes, Betsey Trotwood, and Dora, from oldest to youngest, when one spring night the servant informs David of a visitor who looks to be a farmer. David orders the visitor to be let in, and by and by the Copperfields behold Mr. Peggotty who is a great deal older but who is nonetheless ruddy, hearty, and strong as he ever was.
The Copperfields welcome Mr. Peggotty who informs them that he has come alone and that his stay will be brief one before he returns to Australia. Presently, David and Agnes ask about the fates of their friends in Australia and they learn that: 1) Emily spends all her time teaching children and tending to the sick, 2) Martha has married a young farm-laborer, 3) Mrs.Gummidge,true to her word, has been Mr. Peggotty's most faithful and trusting helping hand, 4) Mr. Micawber had, at first, in partnership with Mr. Peggotty had thrived as a farmer, but is now a respected magistrate.
Presently, Mr. Peggotty produces a newspaper and points to an article which describes a reception that was held in honor of Mr. Micawber's new position. David's attention is then drawn to section in the paper where Mr.Micawber directly addresses David. Indeed, Mr. Micawber tells David of how much their friendship still means to him and that Mr. Micawber will always regard David as Mr. Micawber's chief benefactor. While perusing this, David notices that numerous articles in the newspaper are authored by Mr. Micawber.
Mr. Peggotty remains as the Copperfields' guest for the duration of his stay in England which is a little under a month. Before he leaves for Australia, Mr. Peggotty and David visit Ham's grave in Yarmouth. There Mr. Peggotty removes a tuft of Ham's burial ground to be given to Emily who had made the specific request.