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.
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