Fagin sits brooding while Dawkins, Bates, and Chitling play cards. By carefully studying Chitling's hand, the Dodger is able to win consistently, putting an end to the game.
The others banter Chitling about being in love with Betsy. Tom grants that he served a jail sentence to protect the girl, whereas if "the poor half-witted dupe" had talked, he might have got off free. Charley's irrepressible mirth exasperates Chitling and he delivers a blow that Bates nimbly evades, and it lands "on the chest of the merry old gentleman."
The bell rings and the Dodger goes out to investigate. When he comes back, he whispers to Fagin, who shows great consternation and immediately sends Bates and Chitling from the room. Agreeable to Fagin's wishes, Dawkins brings someone down from upstairs. It is Toby Crackit — haggard and alone.
Crackit must first relieve a three-day fast. After he has leisurely eaten, he orders the Dodger out. Then he inquires about Sikes. Fagin has read in the newspapers that the burglary failed, but he is dumfounded to hear that Toby also is ignorant of the whereabouts of Bill and Oliver.
Crackit relates that after the robbery attempt was thwarted, the countryside was aroused, and dogs were set on their trail. Since it was every man for himself, the men deposited the wounded boy in a ditch and separated. Fagin cannot endure to hear more and madly rushes from the house.
