Quilp remains sequestered in his counting house, unaware of the events that are occurring that will rob him of his freedom. He is satisfied with the results of his manipulations. He spends three days adjusting his accounts.
The day after Brass’ confession, Quilp learns some distressing news. Betsy Quilp comes to the counting house with a letter that a messenger had brought. She says that the messenger didn’t know who the message came from, but it was to be given to Quilp—and it was of great consequence.
Thinking the letter might need an answer, Quilp lets his wife in. He recognizes Sally’s handwriting. She has written that her brother has betrayed everything, that strangers are coming to call on him, and he should flee like she is doing. Quilp, much to his wife’s alarm, starts muttering how he wishes he had drowned the man the last time he saw him.
He orders Tom Scott to escort Betsy Quilp back home, and to not come back until he hears from Quilp. He tells his wife not to ask questions, not to look for him, and not to speak about him. Tom will take care of her. Mrs. Quilp asks if this has anything to do with Nell. Enraged, he comes after the two with a fire poker.
Quilp bars himself inside and reviews his exits for escape in case he should have any unwelcomed callers. He starts packing, cursing Sampson Brass. He wonders why Sally didn’t kill him, assuming she had advanced knowledge of what he was going to do. She warned Quilp too late. Quilp blames Nell and her grandfather for his misfortunes, and he promises vengeance against Kit.
He hears a gate he closed knocking about. Thinking someone is coming, he flees. He knocks over the stove and extinguishes the light. In the darkness, he gets turned around and loses his direction. He falls into the water. He hears someone and recognizes them, but he has barred them. While they can see him, they are unable to help him. He drowns. His body washes ashore in a swamp.