Freeman’s Visit and Public Acclaim
The news of the duel spreads throughout Bath, and Freeman visits Roderick with astonishment, having heard reports that Roderick had fled after wounding Lord Quiverwit fatally. Roderick corrects the misconception and thanks his friend for the good offices he has performed among his acquaintances. Freeman’s support proves advantageous, as Roderick is warmly received at the coffee-house by persons who had previously avoided him. The company amuses itself with the scandal of Melinda’s French admirer, and Roderick’s reputation appears enhanced by the duel.
Lord Quiverwit’s Reconciliation
Lord Quiverwit sends for Roderick, who finds the nobleman confined to his bed. The lord thanks Roderick for his moderation in the encounter and requests forgiveness for any offense committed in anger. He acknowledges his inability to abandon his passion for Narcissa but promises to pursue his suit with justice and honor. More alarmingly, the lord reveals he has informed Narcissa’s brother of the suspected romantic connection and warns that Narcissa possesses no independent fortune, rendering her dependent on whatever means Roderick can provide. Roderick is provoked by this revelation and departs in anger.
Narcissa Carried Off by Her Brother
As Roderick walks homeward, he sees a handkerchief waved from a passing coach-and-six and recognizes the servant on horseback as belonging to the squire. He deduces that Narcissa has been seized by her brother following Lord Quiverwit’s warning. Frantic with distress, Roderick rushes to his lodgings, snatches his pistols, and orders Strap to procure post-horses with such agitation that his valet fears another duel.
Despair and Gambling in Bath
Freeman intervenes, calming Roderick and persuading him that precipitate action would harm Narcissa’s reputation and that waiting for news through her maid represents the wiser course. Roderick composes himself, appears publicly with calm demeanor, and finds society’s good opinion restored. Melinda becomes so universally disfavored that she flees to London. However, after several weeks without word from Narcissa, Roderick sinks into despondency. In a fit of despair, he resolves to gamble for a fortune or ruin himself completely. He plays for three days, initially winning a thousand pounds but continuing until he is reduced to five guineas, ashamed to stake the remainder.
Departure for London
The next morning brings violent despair, but Roderick recovers enough to book passage on the stage coach to London. He settles his debts in Bath, which amount to only thirty shillings. Strap accompanies him, finding a return horse for his own transport. During the journey across Bagshot Heath, Roderick briefly contemplates highway robbery but abandons the notion upon considering the infamy of detection. He arrives in London and reoccupies his former lodgings.
Banter’s Cold Reception
Roderick seeks out Banter, who at first receives him cordially, expecting his bond to be discharged. Upon learning of Roderick’s losses, Banter’s manner changes entirely. He suggests darkly that Roderick should put it out of fortune’s power to trick him again, pointing to his own neck in a grim allusion. When Roderick reminds him of the five guineas previously lent, Banter claims the debt is now reversed, insisting Roderick owes him five hundred for lost expectations. Roderick cannot obtain the money but accepts Banter’s counsel to seek fortune at the gaming table again, selling his watch to fund another attempt.
Strap’s Intervention
Strap pawns Roderick’s sword and expresses the deepest concern for his friend’s welfare, declaring he can earn a living with his ten fingers but fears for Roderick’s future. When Roderick darkly hints he possesses a resource in his loaded pistol, Strap is horrified and pleads with him to avoid such temptation, invoking religious warnings about the soul and the impropriety of despair. He reminds Roderick of his uncle Mr. Bowling, who may be returning home and could arrive shortly. This suggestion rekindles hope, and Roderick promises to take no desperate step until Strap obtains news from Wapping.
Receiving Narcissa’s Letter
During Strap’s absence, Banter delivers a letter from Narcissa that Freeman had forwarded. Roderick kisses the superscription and reads her message with transport. Narcissa explains she was carried away by her brother after Lord Quiverwit revealed their correspondence. She warns against further desperate measures on her account, assures him of her constancy, and notes that both she and Miss Williams are well but anxious. The postscript explains that any attempt to communicate would only extend their captivity and implores him to desist from efforts to reach her. The letter provides great consolation, and Banter, upon viewing her portrait, acknowledges her beauty and understanding.
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