The Adventures of Roderick Random

Pardon and Pledge of Aid to Mrs. Gawky

Deeply affected by her discourse, and having no cause to suspect the sincerity of her penitence, the narrator raises her up, freely pardons all she has done against him, and promises to befriend her as far as lies in his power. He thus does himself a piece of justice by her means and resolves to reconcile her to her father.

第五十二章

Chapter LII describes Roderick Random’s return to London and his efforts to clear his reputation from the conspiracy that led to his earlier disgrace. Through Mrs. Gawky’s sworn declaration exposing the plot, Random secures vindication from her father and the schoolmaster, generously rewards Mrs. Gawky, and arranges a small lifetime annuity for her despite her father’s refusal to take her back into the household.

Initial Refusal to Contact Apothecary

Since his last arrival in London, Random has made no attempt to contact the apothecary, believing it impossible to establish his innocence given how damagingly the accusation against him was circumstanced.

Strap’s Failed Justification to Schoolmaster

Strap attempted to justify Random to the schoolmaster but failed utterly. Mr. Concordance broke off all correspondence with Strap because Strap refused to abandon his connection with Random, leaving matters at an impasse.

Vindication Deal with Mrs. Gawky

Seeing a fair opportunity to vindicate his character, Random stipulated with Mrs. Gawky that he would not lift a finger to help her until she first did him the justice of clearing his reputation by swearing on oath before a magistrate, exposing the full conspiracy that had been executed against him.