Pip is suffering the second thoughts common to most people when getting used to a new place and as such, feels that London is overrated. There may be an undercurrent of guilt in this, a feeling of “I left Joe and the forge for this?” Guilt is strong in him when he notes how quickly he is able to put mental distance between himself and home. He has just arrived and it already seems like he left home months ago. Wemmick’s surprise when Pip reaches to shake his hand is another indication life in London is different. Basic rituals of friendship and kindness are either overlooked or have been corrupted into a trying to get something from someone.
There are some redeeming qualities in the characters of Herbert Pocket and Jaggers. Herbert apologizes for his sparse quarters because he supports himself, saying that, even if his father could support him, he would not allow it. He is an honorable, hard-working man with dreams for his future. At this point in the story, Pip thinks Herbert will never achieve them because Pip does not recognize that having dreams is different than being a dreamer: Having dreams propels you to set goals and strive; being a dreamer leaves one in a fantasy world without earning anything. Jaggers is another honorable man. While not the warmest human being, he is genuinely caring because he is honest and straightforward. Jaggers misleads no one, and therefore helps people in his own way. His bringing Pip to Matthew Pocket helps the latter in his struggle to support his family, and Jaggers’ honest expectation that Pip will get into debt is his indirect way of trying to warn Pip not to get carried away with the money.
