Martin Chuzzlewit

Old Martin Chuzzlewit travelling in Wiltshire with his companion Mary Graham, is suddenly taken ill. Lying at the Blue Dragon Inn, he finds himself surrounded by grasping relatives anxious to inherit his money. They have learnt that his grandson, Young Martin has been disinherited. His cousin Seth Pecksniff, secretly takes young Martin on as an apprentice with hopes of making a match with one of his daughters (Charity or Mercy). Young Martin joins the simple Tom Pinch as an apprentice. Pecksniff is summoned to London lodging with his daughters at Mrs Todgers' boarding house. Old Martin confides to Pecksniff that against his wishes young Martin intends to marry Mary Graham.

Seth Pecksniff returns to Wiltshire to carry out Old Martin Chuzzlewit's orders. Young Martin is expelled from his position and resolves to seek his fortune in America, a country which he thinks will need young architects. Mark Tapley from the Blue Dragon Inn volunteers to act as his unpaid servant until his fortune is made. Tom Pinch is upset that Young Martin is leaving and he gives him his last half sovereign. Young Martin has a tearful farewell with Mary, they pledge their love and she gives him a diamond ring.

Jonas Chuzzlewit gives his father a lavish funeral, then, encouraged by Pecksniff returns with him to Wiltshire to pay further attention to Charity. Anthony's ancient clerk, Mr Chuffey, is left in the care of Mrs Gamp, a "specialist nurse". To Charity's dismay and anger, Jonas proposes to Mercy who, after much teasing, accepts. Old Martin Chuzzlewit and Mary Graham turn up unexpectedly at Pecksniff's, and the latter attempts to insinuate Jonas back into his uncle's favour.