The Crucible Chapter 6

Steerforth’s company lifted my spirits. One day I told him of the stories that I had read from my father’s books. He seemed interested, and asked me, “Do you remember them, Copperfield?” I was pleased to tell him that I did. Thereafter, I told him stories at night before he went to sleep. He was very fond of my stories and often wanted to hear some more in the morning before the classes resumed. In return, he helped me with my exercises that were hard for me.

I liked Steerforth and Mr. Mell. However, Steerforth did not like Mr. Mell because he was poor, and often made fun of him. This made me very unhappy.

One day, Mr. Mell was taking a class. He was having trouble settling the class. “Silence,” shouted Mr. Mell. The boys paid no heed and kept on shouting. Steerforth was shouting too, and Mr. Mell rebuked, “Silence Steerforth!” Steerforth shouted back, “Silence yourself!” Mr.

It was time for the holidays. Time to go home. I longed to see my mother and Peggotty. Mother had written that I was to come home, but I dreaded meeting Mr. and Miss Murdstone again.

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Chapter 6

Home for the Holidays

T

the Yarmouth mail reached the inn at

Yarmouth at night. I was to stay at an inn; not the inn with the clever waiter from last time, but a different one. Mr. Barkis came for me in the morning. His horse was lazy as ever. I told him that I have given Peggotty his message that BARKIS IS WILLING. He was gruff and curt when he said, “Nothing came of it. No answer.” I never thought that Peggotty was supposed to answer. “Of course,” said he. “When a man says he is willing, he is waiting for an answer,” I assured him that this time I would be sure to ask Peggotty for an answer. This pleased him and he said, “What is her Christian name did you say? Not Peggotty, her natural name?” I told her it was Clara. Mr. Barkis wrote CLARA PEGGOTTY on the inside of her cart as if making a missive for himself.

Home for the Holidays | 37

Chapter 16

Tough Times