They play several games until he realizes how late it is. The Brasses are due to be back, and he needs to leave before they return. He asks Marchioness if they go out often, which she confirms. She tells him that Mr. Brass would never do anything without consulting his sister first.
Dicks asks if she overhears what they say about other people—like himself. Marchioness nods. He asks if they talk about him—and if it is positive. Marchioness tells him that they think he is funny, but that he can’t be trusted. She tells him never to reveal what she has said, or she’ll be beaten to death.
He assumes she must spy a lot to overhear as much as she does. She admits that she is trying to find out where Sally hides the key to the food lockers. She wants to be able to satisfy her hunger. He goes home, thinking about how clever Marchioness is—and whether she is doomed to the fate she is living.
He thinks about Sophia Wackles, now Mrs. Cheggs, playing games in the evening. He imagines that by now her heart is turning cold, and he thinks it serves her right. He plays his flute. He practices the same song over and over, driving his neighbors crazy. The next day his landlady gives him a notice to quit.
He goes to the office to find Sally there. She asks if he’s seen a silver pencil case. She comments on how several things have gone missing in the last week: a knife, the pencil case, and some money. She asks if he is missing anything. He fears that the Marchioness is guilty and that she is done for.
Sally has Dick tell Sampson about the missing items. Sampson also admits he is missing money. Dick is relieved to realize they don’t suspect him, though he fears for the Marchioness. Sally then mentions that Kit has had the opportunity to take the stuff, and he must be the thief.
At that moment, Kit arrives to see Mr. Marks. Sampson scorns the idea that it could be Kit. He sends Dick on an errand.