After reading · Part II · Chapter 2
Part II · Chapter 2A Treason Trial Begins
Reading boundary
Start: You know the Old Bailey well, no doubt?
Stop after: hammer the nails into the scaffold.
Summary
Tellson’s sends Jerry to the Old Bailey with a note for Mr. Lorry. Jerry learns that Charles Darnay is charged with high treason, an offense carrying a horrifying sentence. The crowd presses in as if attending a spectacle and stares at the prisoner through a mirror placed to reflect light onto him.
Darnay appears composed. He notices Doctor Manette and Lucie among the witnesses; Lucie’s compassion shows plainly, while her father’s face bears the lasting marks of imprisonment. Mr. Lorry receives Jerry’s note as the Attorney-General rises to present the case.
Who’s who
- Charles Darnay — The young prisoner accused of betraying England.
- Jerry Cruncher — Tellson’s messenger, newly arrived at court.
- Jarvis Lorry — The banker seated among the witnesses.
- Doctor Manette and Lucie Manette — Father and daughter called as witnesses.