Summary

After Blackpool clearly accuses Tom Gradgrind of the crime, Gradgrind races home where he learns that Sissy has sent Tom to the circus to hide out. With the news that Tom might safely escape England on a ship bound for South America, Gradgrind, Louisa, and Sissy all make their way to the circus where the find Tom working as a blackface comic. During their reunification with Tom, he is annoyed and harsh with his family, completely blaming them for his problems. He is particularly harsh with Louisa for her refusal to fund his gambling addiction. Despite Tom’s terrible attitude, Louisa is overwhelmed with love for her brother, and she cries out that she forgives him for all his sins. Just then, Bitzer arrives prepared to return Tom to Coketown for arrest. Desperate, Gradgrind begs Bitzer to leave Tom alone, asking whether Bitzer has a heart...