Our Mutual Friend

Jenny visits Riah in the moneylending store, which she now knows has always belonged to Fledgeby. Riah confesses his regret and shame at being forced to lie to her, especially as he has furthered antisemitic stereotypes. He had planned to quit. Jenny urges Riah not to help Fledgeby, who then sends a note to Riah ending their partnership. Jenny invites Riah to stay with her. They walk to her house, spotting her father in a state of drunken collapse. He dies soon after. On the day of the funeral, Mortimer arrives with a message from Lizzie: Eugene is dying of his injuries and would like to see Jenny.

Mortimer takes Jenny to the inn; Riah is left in charge of Jenny’s shop. In a moment of lucidity, Eugene asks that Headstone not be prosecuted for the attack. He fears that this will only hurt Lizzie’s reputation. Jenny understands that Eugene wants to marry Lizzie even though he is dying.

Mortimer leaves to fetch Bella, who is shocked that her husband will not accompany them to the wedding. In fact, John refuses even to meet Mortimer face-to-face. The Milveys and Bella go to the train station. They notice Headstone nearby and engage him in conversation.