The lodger uses Dick as a go-between with his landlords. He pays for everything beforehand, is little trouble, makes no noise, and keeps early hours. It gives Dick an important position, though he makes his employers believe that he has a friendlier relationship with the lodger than he does.
Dick wins Sally’s favor by introducing her to a fun-filled existence. Sally’s whole life has revolved around the law. Dick treats her like his buddy and shares his knowledge. He also manages to persuade her to do his share of the work.
Swiveller is perturbed by the little girl that is a servant in the house. She lives in the basement of the house, and never emerges except when she is called. Her face is always dirty. Nobody ever comes to visit her. Brass reveals that she is a bastard child but refuses to say anymore than that. Dick is afraid to ask Sally about her, fearing it will end their new friendship.
Dick follows Sally down to the basement, which is a miserable place. All the food is padlocked. Sally is carrying a leg of mutton. She cuts off a little and gives it to the child with a side of mash potatoes. She asks the child if she wants more. The child says no, though her eyes are still hungry. Sally tells her she can never say that she didn’t receive meat or any allowance. Sally then locks the mutton away. She beats the child.