After reading · Part II · Chapter 24

Part II · Chapter 24The Appeal from France

Reading boundary Start: In such risings of fire and risings of sea Stop after: The end of the second book.

Summary

By August 1792, French nobles have fled while revolutionary laws confiscate property and punish émigrés. Tellson’s becomes a center for French intelligence in London. Darnay, concealing his birth, hears Stryver and others condemn the absent Marquis St. Evrémonde. Lorry prepares to travel to Paris to protect the bank’s records, with Jerry as escort.

Tellson’s holds a letter addressed to Evrémonde. Darnay claims it and reads Gabelle’s plea: imprisoned for serving him, Gabelle insists he acted under Darnay’s instructions to spare the people. Believing his renunciation and good intentions will protect him, Darnay secretly resolves to go to Paris, leaves explanatory letters for Lucie and Manette, and departs without consulting them.

Who’s who

Charles Darnay / Evrémonde — Drawn toward France by Gabelle’s appeal.
Gabelle — Imprisoned former estate officer asking Darnay to save him.
Mr. Lorry — Sent to secure Tellson’s papers in Paris.
Mr. Stryver — Confidently judging French affairs from London.