Synopsis

Tulkinghorn, employing the unscrupulous moneylender Smallweed, threatens George's prospects, tightening a vise around his future. Meanwhile, Guppy’s findings regarding Esther send a tremor of disbelief through Lady Dedlock. Esther and Jarndyce offer refuge to Jo, a young crossing sweeper gravely ill and fleeing Tulkinghorn’s agents. Their compassion, however, yields an unforeseen consequence.