The Mystery of Edwin Drood

Content Warning: The novel and the guide reference drug addiction, colonialism, and racist beliefs.

On a cold December night, Edwin visits Mr. Grewgious’s London law office; Mr. Grewgious’s assistant, Mr. Bazzard, is also there. The three men have dinner together and chat about various topics, including Rosa. Mr. Grewgious confirms that Edwin received the copy of Rosa’s father’s will. Mr. Grewgious then presents Edwin with a beautiful diamond and ruby ring; it once belonged to Rosa’s mother. The ring was left in trust for Edwin to use to confirm his betrothal to Rosa; Mr. Grewgious tells Edwin that he should take the ring with him when he goes to Cloisterham, and either put it on Rosa’s finger (confirming their betrothal) or bring it back to Grewgious. Grewgious has Bazzard witness Edwin taking the ring.

Alone, Grewgious reflects on his secret and unrequited love for Rosa’s mother.

In Cloisterham, Mr. Sapsea has become Mayor and has cultivated a friendship with Jasper. One night, Sapsea runs into Jasper, the Dean, and Mr. Tope talking near the cathedral. Jasper explains to the group that Sapsea should be given credit for introducing him to Durdles; in the subsequent time, Jasper has spent more time with Durdles and is now planning “a moonlight expedition […] among the tombs, vaults, towers, and ruins” (123) of the cathedral.