Two weeks later, Kit’s trial begins. Kit pleads not guilty. He is unnerved by being in court, surrounded by so many people after the isolation of his cell. He is intimidated by the wigged lawmen. Though he hasn’t seen the Garlands or Mr. Witherden since his arrest, he knows that they have hired representation for him.
The prosecutor begins his case. He says that Sampson Brass must be a virtuous man if he lives at the residence he does—which is named after a great man named Bevis Marks. He calls Sampson Brass as the first witness. He then calls Sally Brass, and then Richard Swiveller. The defense attorney, when it is his turn to cross-examine the witnesses, cannot get any information to help his case.
The prosecution has found out that Dick Swiveller has been friendly to Kit. He discredits Swiveller by revealing that he treated Kit’s brother to dinner. The jury and spectators get the idea that Kit’s brother is an adult, rather than a toddler. They form the wrong idea.
When Mr. Garland takes the stand, the prosecutor points out that Kit’s only reference to his good character came from his mother. He also mentions that Kit was suddenly dismissed from his old employer for unknown reasons.
Kit is found guilty. The newspaper turnkey breaks the news to Mrs. Nubbles and Barbara’s mother. He doesn’t think Kit will get a life sentence at transportation, and there is still plenty of time to prove his good character.
Kit asks Barbara’s mother to take his mom home. He tells his mom that he is confident that some friend of his will rise up and prove his innocence. He asks her to tell his brothers that he is innocent.
Richard Swiveller escorts Mrs. Nubbles home and stays with her until she has recovered. He then returns to the Brass residence. He is beginning to suspect that Sampson Brass did set up Kit. He asks Brass for money to pay the coachman. Brass informs him that he is terminated from his employment. Brass thinks he is more fitted for the stage or the army. He would like to remain friends, and asks Dick to stop in occasionally. Sally is fond of him and is sorry to lose him.
Dick grabs his coat and leaves without saying a word. He plans to go back to the Nubbles, but he falls violently ill.