After reading · Part II · Chapter 19

Part II · Chapter 19The Doctor’s Opinion

Reading boundary Start: Worn out by anxious watching, Mr. Lorry fell asleep at his post. Stop after: like accomplices in a horrible crime.

Summary

Doctor Manette awakens restored, believing it is the morning after Lucie’s wedding and unaware of nine days. Lorry describes an unnamed patient with Manette’s history. Speaking as a physician, Manette explains that a powerful association revived an old fear; he believes another relapse unlikely because the buried anticipation has now been confronted.

He says the work itself soothed a tortured mind but agrees that its tools should be removed if done in the patient’s absence and for his daughter’s sake. After Manette leaves, Lorry hacks the bench apart; he and Miss Pross burn its pieces in the kitchen fire and bury the tools, shoes, and leather. They feel guilty despite their purpose.

Who’s who

Doctor Manette — Recovered and indirectly analyzing his own relapse.
Mr. Lorry — Friend seeking both medical judgment and permission to act.
Miss Pross — Lorry’s ally in removing the shoemaking materials.