A Tale of Two Cities : Summary

Plot Summary 

Book the First – Recalled to Life

Life and Times in 1775: The novel opens in the year 1775. Dickens uses a famous line to describe the era: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times” (The Duality of 1775). These words show the contrast between England and France. In England, the monarchy rules, but the government fears change. Crime is rising. Justice is often unfair. In France, poverty and anger are growing. The rich live in luxury, while the poor suffer. The people are ready to revolt. Dickens gives us a picture of two cities: London and Paris. Both are uneasy. In London, guards are nervous. Highway robbers attack coaches. In Paris, anger is brewing. The people are hungry and restless. This chapter sets the tone. A storm is coming.

Dr. Manette’s Imprisonment and Release: The Mystery of Dr. Manette’s Imprisonment and Release is very pathetic. In 1757, Dr. Alexandre Manette lived in Paris. He was a kind and honest doctor. One day, he saw a terrible crime. Two rich brothers, the cruel Evremonde nobles, harmed poor people. They told Dr. Manette to stay silent. But he refused to hide the truth. As punishment, they locked him in the Bastille prison. He stayed there for eighteen long years. People thought he had died. His daughter, Lucie Manette, grew up in England without knowing her father was alive. 

The main story begins: In 1775, the main story begins. Jarvis Lorry, a banker from Tellson’s Bank, travels from London to Dover. He is going to meet young Lucie Manette. On the way, a man named Jerry Cruncher stops the coach. He gives Lorry a note from the bank. The message says, “Wait at Dover for Mam’selle.” Lorry sends back the strange reply: “Recalled to Life.” Jerry is confused but carries the message back. 

News of the father’s survival: Soon, Lorry meets Lucie in Dover. He gives her shocking news—her father is alive. He has been released from prison. He is in Paris now. Lucie is surprised and emotional. She thought her father had died many years ago. Together, Lorry and Lucie travel to Paris to find him. They go to a small wine shop owned by Ernest and Thérèse Defarge. The Defarges are former servants of Dr. Manette. They now secretly keep him in a small room upstairs. 

A tragic scene and the awakening of compassion: Lucie and Lorry are taken to the room. Dr. Manette is sitting alone, making shoes. He is pale, thin, and confused. He looks broken and lost. Prison has changed him deeply. He doesn’t recognize his daughter. He speaks in short, confused words and keeps working silently. Lucie feels scared and heartbroken. But she gently speaks to him. Her soft voice touches his heart. She holds him close and comforts him with love. 

Dr. Manette begins to recover his health and memory. But he still fears the past. The trauma of his long imprisonment haunts him. Slowly, Dr. Manette begins to respond. He feels a small spark of life again. Lucie’s love gives him strength and peace. They leave Paris quietly and return to England. Dr. Manette starts to recover. He slowly regains his memory and health. Still, he fears the past. The pain of prison haunts him. But with Lucie’s help, he feels hope. He was “buried alive” in prison. Now, with Lucie’s help, he is “recalled to life.”

Charles Darnay’s Trial & Sydney Carton’s Introduction: Five years later,in 1780, Charles Darnay is on trial in London. He is a young Frenchman, accused of being a spy. The witnesses say he traveled between England and France often. They believe he shared secrets with France. Darnay claims he was only doing business.

The trial is tense. Roger Cly and John Barsad testified against Darnay. Both are spies and liars. But the defense lawyer, Stryver, has a trick. He brings in a man who looks almost exactly like Darnay—Sydney Carton. Because the two men look so alike, the court is unsure. Maybe the witnesses were confused. Darnay was released.  Here,  Stryver takes credit for saving Darney. But actually, Carton saved Darnay. Carton is clever but careless. He drinks too much and wastes his life. He works behind the scenes for Stryver, who calls him a “jackal.” Stryver is the “lion” who takes the glory. Carton acts like he doesn’t care. But deep down, he is lonely and full of self-hate.

After the trial, Carton and Darnay have dinner. Carton asks Darnay if he thinks he is a good man. He calls himself a lost soul. He says, “I care for no man, and no man cares for me.” Yet when he sees Lucie, something in him changes. Her kindness stirs his heart.

Lucie Manette:– Lucie’s Role in Healing Her Father

Lucie is the heart of the story. Dickens calls her “the golden thread” that connects people. She brings life to her father. She shows kindness to Darnay. And even Sydney Carton finds hope through her. She lives in a quiet home with her father in Soho, London. Her presence gives peace.

Over time, Darnay falls in love with her. Carton also loves her. They love Lucie equally, but Lucie likes Darnay because of his responsible attitude. A year later of the closing of the sedition case against him, Darney tells Dr. Manette that he wants to marry Lucy. Carton tells Lucie that he is unworthy of her. Still, he says he would do anything to help her and for the people whom she loves. Even give his life. His words seem strange at the time. But they will later become important.

Dr. Manette also grows stronger. But sometimes he still returns to shoemaking. When he is stressed, he falls back into his prison habit. Lucie patiently helps him through these times.

The Marquis Evrémonde’s Cruelty- Running Over a Child: The story now moves to France. A nobleman named the Marquis St. Evrémonde drives fast through Paris. His carriage runs over a poor child in the street. The child dies. The Marquis shows no guilt. He throws a coin to the child’s father. The crowd is angry but afraid. They know speaking out can get them killed. A man named Gaspard, the child’s father, is full of grief and hate. The farmer could not tolerate the death of his son. Later, Gaspard climbs into the Marquis’s home. He kills him in the night to take revenge, though he is sentenced to death for this.

“Fire in the Château” – The Marquis’ Murder: After the murder, the Marquis’s château is burned down. The peasants are rising. They hate the rich. They want revenge for years of suffering. Revolution is coming. The Defarges, who run the wine shop, watch closely. Madame Defarge knits names of enemies into her work. These are people she wants dead when the revolution begins.

The Storming of the Bastille: Years pass. Tension grows in France. In 1789, the Paris revolutionaries attacked the Bastille. The people finally rise. They storm the Bastille prison. The Defarges lead the attack. Ernest Defarge searches for Dr. Manette’s old cell. He finds a hidden paper there. It will be important later. The revolution spreads. The poor take over. Many rich people are arrested or killed. Heads fall to the guillotine. Fear spreads through Paris.

“Madame Defarge’s Knitting” – A Register of Death: Madame Defarge continues to knit her list. Each name is a death sentence. Her face is cold and calm. She wants full revenge. Her hate is deep. She especially hates the Evrémonde family. She does not know that Charles Darnay is the new Marquis, though he has rejected his title.

Darnay’s Return to France: Arrested by the Revolutionaries: In London, Charles Darnay lives a happy life. He has married Lucie. They have a daughter named little Lucie. Dr. Manette is strong again. But Darnay gets a letter. His old servant, Gabelle, has been jailed in France. Darnay feels guilty. He thinks he must help. He secretly goes to Paris. But as soon as he arrives, the revolutionaries arrest him. He is called an enemy of the people. Even though he came to help, his noble name is used against him.

Hearing the news, Lucie and Dr. Manette follow him to France. Dr. Manette hopes his past will help. He was once a victim of the system. Maybe the revolutionaries will listen to him. They stay near the prison and wait for news. 

“Dr. Manette’s Letter” – The Condemning Evidence: Charles Darnay is brought to trial in Paris. Dr. Manette speaks in his favor. He tells the court about Darnay’s goodness. The court listens and sets Darnay free. Lucie and Dr. Manette feel great joy. But that joy does not last long. On the same day, Darnay is arrested again. A new charge is brought against him. The Defarges find a hidden letter. It was written long ago by Dr. Manette. He had written it while in prison. He had hidden it inside his prison cell.

Madame Defarge finds the letter while searching. Her husband, Monsieur Defarge, reads the letter in court during Charles Darnay’s trial. The letter about the crimes of the Evrémonde brothers. It tells the story of Dr. Manette’s arrest. Years ago, he treated a dying peasant girl. Noblemen in France had harmed her. They were the Evrémonde brothers—Darnay’s uncle and father. One brother kidnapped and raped the poor girl. Her brother tried to protect the younger sister. He went to confront the cruel Evrémonde. The Marquis killed him with his sword. He also ran over him with his carriage. Dr. Manette tried to report this cruel crime. But the brothers sent him to prison instead.

In the letter, Dr. Manette told everything. He cursed the Evrémondes and their whole family. The revolutionaries now use this letter as proof. They say Darnay is guilty by blood. Even though Darnay had no part in it, the court declares him guilty without mercy. Dr. Manette begs the court to spare Darnay. He says it happened long before Darnay’s time. He says Darnay is now like his son. But the jury does not listen at all. They see the letter as final proof. Darnay is sentenced to die the next day. He will be executed by the guillotine. The sins of his family seal his fate. 

The Shadow of the Guillotine:  “The Carmagnole’s Dance of Death”

The streets of Paris are full of noise. People sing the Carmagnole, a wild dance. They celebrate death. The guillotine becomes a public show. Each day, carts bring prisoners to their deaths. Crowds gather. People cheer as heads fall. Even children laugh at the killings. The city has lost its soul. 

Lucie waits near the prison every day. She hopes Charles will see her from his window. She never loses hope. Her father tries to save Darnay again. But now, no one listens. The court only wants blood. Darnay has no chance. Charles Darnay is sentenced to death after his trial in Paris, when Dr. Manette’s letter is used as evidence against him. He was first kept in La Force Prison. Later, he was moved to the Conciergerie, the worst prison in Paris. He writes farewell letters to Lucie, Dr. Manette, and Mr. Lorry. He tries to stay calm, but fear grows in his heart. He does not know that help is on the way.

Sydney Carton is in Paris. He has made a secret plan. He wants to save Darnay, but no one knows how yet. Carton visits the places Darnay once walked. He learns the way into the prison. He follows John Barsad, the spy, and confronts him. He threatens to expose him unless he helps. Barsad agrees. Carton still loves Lucie. He remembers what he once said: he would give his life for her or for anyone she loves. Now, he prepares to keep that promise.

Carton’s Sacrifice and the Family’s Escape: Sydney Carton walks through the streets of Paris at night. He watches people dancing the Carmagnole, celebrating death. But he walks with purpose. He has made up his mind. He will save Charles Darnay and give his own life in return. He prepares the final steps of his plan. He buys medicine from a chemist and memorizes the layout of the prison. He makes one last visit to Lucie and kisses her daughter gently as she sleeps. Carton meets Mr. Lorry and shares his secret plan. He tells Lorry that Lucie and her family must be ready. They must flee the city the next day. Carton makes Lorry promise one important thing. He must wait in a carriage at 2 p.m. sharp. The family must leave as soon as Carton returns.

Carton’s chance finally comes. With help from John Barsad, the prison spy, he enters Darnay’s cell. Carton and Darnay look almost exactly alike. Carton brings a note from Lucie for Darnay. As Darnay reads the note, Carton gives him a potion. The drink makes Darnay faint slowly. Then Carton quickly changes clothes with him. When the guards return, they see only one man—Carton dressed as Darnay. The guards carry the unconscious Darnay away. They believe he is Sydney Carton. Carton stays behind in the cell. He is calm and peaceful. He knows his life is coming to an end, but he feels at peace. He thinks of Lucie and the life she will now live. 

Meanwhile, Mr. Lorry prepares to leave Paris quietly. He plans to escape with Lucie, Dr. Manette, and the child. They already have their travel papers ready. Carton has arranged everything for them. Dr. Manette, once strong, is now broken again. He cannot believe Charles is lost. He does not know Carton has taken Charles’s place. The family waits for a final message from Carton. Then they leave the city in silence and deep sadness.

On the other hand, at Lucie’s apartment, Madame Defarge makes her final move. Madame Defarge is the surviving sister of the poor peasant family harmed by the Evrémonde brothers. She wants to kill Lucie and her daughter as revenge for her family’s suffering. She also wants Dr. Manette punished. She believes the whole family is guilty. She goes to the house with her friend, The Vengeance. But Lucie has already gone. Only Miss Pross is there.

Madame Defarge demands entry. Miss Pross refuses to move. They argue. Then Madame Defarge pulls out a pistol. They struggle fiercely. The gun goes off and kills Madame Defarge. Miss Pross is safe, but the sound leaves her permanently deaf. She has saved the family at the cost of her hearing. 

The Final Hours of Sydney Carton: In prison, Sydney Carton waits calmly. A young seamstress is near him. She is afraid and trembling. She gently asks if she can hold his hand. Carton agrees and quietly comforts her. They speak in soft tones. She thanks him for his kindness and courage. She says he was sent to her by Heaven. Carton tells her to keep looking at him when the time comes.  

The next morning, the streets of Paris are full of people. Fifty-two prisoners are going to die that day. Six carts carry them to the guillotine. Carton rides in the third cart with the seamstress. She still holds his hand tightly. She tells him about her cousin. She hopes the new Republic will help poor people. She dreams her cousin will live a long and better life. She wonders if waiting in Heaven for him will feel long. Carton gently replies, “There is no time there, and no trouble.” She then softly asks, “Is it time now?” He says yes. They share a gentle goodbye and a kiss.

They arrive at the square where the guillotine waits. The crowds gather and watch from all sides. Some women sit and knit as they wait. One chair is empty. It belonged to Madame Defarge, who is now dead. The seamstress and Carton are the last to go. She is taken first—she is number Twenty-Two. Carton follows—he is number Twenty-Three. In this way, Carton dedicates his life. 

Carton does not speak, but Dickens reveals his final thoughts. In his heart, Carton sees a better world. He sees Lucie safe with Charles Darnay. He sees their child grow up and honor his name. He sees peace return to England. He sees a new France rise from the ruins. He believes the evil of this time will pass. In giving his life, Carton finds meaning, love, and peace. Carton dies with peace in his heart. His sacrifice brings life, love, and freedom to those he cared about. He becomes a hero not through war or fame, but through love and quiet courage.

In short, A Tale of Two Cities ends with hope born out of sorrow. The revolution takes many lives, but also brings change. Sydney Carton, once lost and wasted, becomes a symbol of selfless love. He fulfills his promise to Lucie. His final act saves a family and gives new meaning to his life. His story shows that even in the darkest times, one brave choice can light the way. Here, Dickens gives us a powerful message that is Oppression will be punished, but mercy, love, and redemption will always endure. 

 

  

Details summary

 

 

 Book the First—Recalled to Life  

Chapters I & II– The Period & The Mail: The story begins in the year 1775. England and France are ruled by kings and queens who seem powerful and unchanging. The time is full of contrasts. Some people see wisdom, others foolishness. Some live in hope, while others despair. Life feels both good and bad at the same time. 

In France, justice is harsh. A young man is tortured and killed for not bowing to a group of monks. Behind this cruelty, the future Revolution is slowly building. Silent forces of fate are already preparing the tools for it—the guillotine and the carts that will carry victims.

England is not peaceful either. Crime is everywhere. Robbers stop travelers on the roads. The mail coaches are attacked. Even noblemen are robbed in public. Law enforcement is violent and quick. Many are executed for serious or minor crimes alike. Society is dangerous, but people accept it as normal.

The Mail: One late night in November, a mail coach travels the road to Dover. The journey is slow because the road is muddy, and the horses are tired. The passengers walk beside the coach to help it climb the hill. Travelers are cautious, fearing highway robbers, and keep silent.

There are three passengers, all wrapped tightly in cloaks. They do not know or trust each other. The coachman struggles to control the horses. The guard stands ready with loaded weapons, expecting trouble.

Suddenly, the sound of a galloping horse approaches from the mist. The guard warns the rider to stop or risk being shot. The rider calls out, asking for a passenger named Mr. Jarvis Lorry. Lorry steps forward, surprised but not afraid. The rider is Jerry, a messenger from Tellson’s Bank in London.

Jerry delivers a short note to Lorry. It says: “Wait at Dover for Mam’selle.” Lorry reads it and gives his reply: “Recalled to life.” Jerry is puzzled by the strange message. Lorry explains nothing and returns to the coach. The other passengers pretend to sleep, hiding their valuables.

The coach continues its journey through the mist. The guard and coachman wonder about the odd words but do not understand them. Jerry, left behind in the cold, talks to himself. He repeats the message, finding it mysterious. He jokes that recalling someone to life would not suit him.  

Chapters III & IV – Night Shadows and The Preparation: The mail coach continues its long journey through the night. Each passenger is lost in private thoughts. The narrator reflects that every person has secrets, locked away like a closed book. Even close friends or lovers cannot fully know each other’s inner thoughts.

Meanwhile, Jerry, the messenger, rides back to London with Mr. Lorry’s message. He wonders about the strange words “Recalled to life.” He keeps thinking it would not suit him to be brought back to life. The thought troubles him all the way as he stops for drinks along his journey.

Inside the coach, Mr. Jarvis Lorry dozes off. His mind mixes dreams with reality. He imagines digging someone out of a grave. In his thoughts, this person has been buried alive for eighteen years. The figure is weak, thin, pale, and confused. Sometimes the imagined man asks if he will really be recalled to life. Other times, he cannot believe it. Mr. Lorry dreams of digging with a spade, a key, or even his hands to free this man. But each time, the figure turns to dust. The dream repeats many times until morning light breaks. Mr. Lorry wakes, shocked by the thought of someone suffering in prison for eighteen years. 

Arrival at Dover and a Shocking Truth: The next day, the mail reaches Dover. The two other passengers leave along the way, leaving only Mr. Lorry. He gets a room at the Royal George Hotel. After breakfast, he arranges accommodation for a young lady expected to meet him. Later, he walks by the sea, waiting. By evening, Miss Lucie Manette arrives from London. She is a gentle, kind, and slightly nervous young woman of seventeen. Mr. Lorry greets her politely. They sit down to talk in a dark, heavy-furnished room.

Mr. Lorry explains that he once knew her father, a French doctor from Beauvais. Lucie believes her father died long ago, before she could remember him. Her mother raised her alone and told her he was gone forever. Now, Mr. Lorry gently reveals the truth. Years ago, Dr. Manette was not dead but secretly imprisoned in France. No one knew where he was or why. After many years, he has finally been found alive, though much changed.

Lucie is overwhelmed. She trembles and begs Mr. Lorry for the truth. He tells her they are going to Paris to bring her father home and give him a new life of comfort and love. She whispers in fear that she is going to meet her father’s ghost, not really him, after so many years apart. The shock is too much. Lucie faints.

A strong, caring woman named Miss Pross, Lucie’s devoted nurse and guardian, rushes in. She scolds Mr. Lorry for frightening the young lady and takes charge of reviving her. Mr. Lorry, humbled, steps back as Miss Pross comforts Lucie, promising to care for her on the journey ahead. 

Chapters V & VI–The Wine-Shop and The Shoemaker: In the poor Paris suburb of Saint Antoine, a wine cask falls from a cart and breaks in the street. The red wine spills everywhere. Hungry and thirsty people rush to the puddles to drink. They scoop wine with their hands, mugs, cloths, and even give drops to babies. When the wine is gone, they scrape the mud, desperate not to waste a drop. Laughter fills the street for a short time, then silence and sadness return.

The wine stains people’s faces, hands, and clothes. A joker writes the word “blood” on a wall with his finger dipped in muddy wine. This hints at the bloody revolution that will one day come.

The street is dirty, cold, and full of sickness and hunger. People wear rags. Children look old and weak. Food is scarce and of poor quality. Every sign in the shops shows poverty. Knives, axes, and guns are the only things well-made and ready. The air feels heavy with suffering and anger.

Near the wine cask, a man named Monsieur Defarge, owner of the wine-shop, watches. His wife, Madame Defarge, sits inside knitting quietly. She seems calm but observant. Mr. Jarvis Lorry and Miss Lucie Manette enter the shop. They have come to meet Defarge, who once worked for Lucie’s father, Dr. Manette. Defarge greets them and leads them through a filthy courtyard and up a dark, foul-smelling staircase. He warns that the climb is hard and explains that Dr. Manette lives alone in a locked room. Eighteen years in prison have broken his mind, and leaving his door open would terrify him.

Finally, they reach the top floor. Three men, called “Jacques,” are peeking through holes at Dr. Manette. Defarge dismisses them. He explains he shows the prisoner only to trusted revolutionaries, hoping it fuels their anger against injustice. Mr. Lorry is uneasy but says nothing more. Defarge unlocks the door and invites them in.

The Shoemaker and His Daughter: Inside the small, dark garret, Dr. Manette sits bent over a bench making shoes. His white hair is unkempt, his clothes are rags, and his hands are thin and pale. Years of isolation have made his voice weak and strange. He barely understands when spoken to. When asked his name, he only answers with his prison number: “One Hundred and Five, North Tower.” He has forgotten his past life and believes shoemaking is his only purpose. 

Lucie slowly approaches her father. At first, he does not recognize her. He touches her golden hair, confused because it reminds him of his wife from long ago. Memories return in fragments. He recalls leaving home one night before his imprisonment and keeping a lock of his wife’s hair with him in prison. As Lucie pleads for his love and forgiveness, emotions overwhelm him. Tears come to his eyes as he realizes this is his daughter, though his mind is clouded by pain and loss. Lucie promises to care for him, take him to England, and bring him peace. She holds him close, comforting him like a child.

When Mr. Lorry and Defarge return with travel supplies, Dr. Manette is exhausted and confused but calm in Lucie’s presence. They prepare to leave Paris immediately, fearing for his fragile state. He has no memory of how he came to this house and still mutters his prison cell number. As they leave, Madame Defarge silently watches them, knitting as always. In the carriage, Dr. Manette clings to Lucie’s hand. When Mr. Lorry wonders if he truly wishes to be “recalled to life,” the only reply from the broken man is still, “I can’t say.” 

 

Book the Second – The Golden Thread

Chapters I & II– Five Years Later & A Sight: Five years have passed since Dr. Manette’s release from prison. Tellson’s Bank in London remains small, dark, and uncomfortable. The partners are proud of their old-fashioned style and dislike any idea of improvement. It is a serious, strict place where mistakes are punished harshly. Many crimes in England are met with the death penalty, and Tellson’s often handles cases that end this way.

Jerry Cruncher works as a porter and messenger for the bank. He lives with his wife and young son, also named Jerry, in a poor area called Hanging-Sword Alley. Early one windy March morning, Jerry wakes up angry. He accuses his wife of praying against his success. He fears her prayers bring him bad luck and stop him from earning money. Their son watches the quarrel silently but laughs secretly. Jerry grows more irritated during breakfast, suspecting his wife’s “blessing” will steal his food’s fortune. Afterward, father and son leave for Tellson’s, where Jerry sets up his stool outside the bank to wait for work. Young Jerry notices his father’s boots are often muddy in the mornings, though Jerry leaves home with clean boots, and he wonders why.

A Sight-The Old Bailey Trial: Later that morning, Jerry receives a message to deliver to Mr. Jarvis Lorry at the Old Bailey court. A major treason trial is about to start. Jerry makes his way through the crowded and unpleasant streets near Newgate Prison, where executions are common and public punishments are cruel. The trial draws a large audience, as public trials are treated like entertainment.

Jerry enters the courtroom and sees many people eager to watch. The accused is a young man named Charles Darnay, about twenty-five years old, calm and well-dressed. He is charged with treason against England. The claim is that he secretly helped the French king during wartime by passing information about English troop movements in North America. If found guilty, he faces a brutal execution: hanging, being cut into pieces, and having his remains displayed. 

The atmosphere is tense and harsh. People expect him to be guilty even before the trial begins. Above the dock, a mirror reflects light onto Darnay, as if showing him off to the crowd. During the trial, his eyes turn to two witnesses seated nearby: a young woman with compassion on her face and an older man with striking white hair. They are Lucie Manette and her father, Dr. Manette. The crowd whispers, curious about them. Jerry learns they are witnesses for the prosecution, meaning they will testify against Darnay. The Judge watches closely as the Attorney-General begins building the case that may condemn Charles Darnay to death.  

Chapters III & IV – A Disappointment & Congratulatory: The trial of Charles Darnay continues at the Old Bailey. The Attorney-General accuses Darnay of treason. He claims that Darnay has, for years, secretly traveled between England and France, passing military information to the enemy. Two main witnesses are brought against him: John Barsad, a supposed patriot but really a dubious man with a dishonest past, and Roger Cly, Darnay’s former servant, who claims to have seen incriminating papers in Darnay’s possession. Both men present questionable evidence and motives.

Mr. Jarvis Lorry testifies that he traveled with two men in a mail coach years ago, but cannot be certain Darnay was one of them. Lucie Manette testifies that Darnay helped her and her ill father during a past voyage. She describes how Darnay used an assumed name for sensitive business but showed kindness to them. Her testimony is given reluctantly, as she does not wish to harm him. Dr. Manette testifies next but cannot remember details of the trip due to his long imprisonment, which has left large gaps in his memory.

Another witness claims to have seen Darnay in a certain town on the same day, but Darnay’s lawyer, Mr. Stryver, points out that his assistant, Sydney Carton, looks remarkably similar to Darnay. The resemblance weakens the witness’s claim. Stryver further argues that Barsad and Cly are spies and liars who hope to gain by accusing Darnay. The jury deliberates for a long time but finally returns with the verdict: Not Guilty. Darnay narrowly escapes execution.

After the Trial: New Acquaintances: After his release, Darnay receives congratulations from his lawyer, Stryver, Mr. Lorry, Dr. Manette, and Lucie. The trial has clearly troubled Dr. Manette, who sometimes drifts into dark, distant thoughts of his imprisonment, only comforted by his daughter’s presence.

Outside the court, Mr. Lorry meets Sydney Carton, who had helped by suggesting the likeness between himself and Darnay. Carton, slightly drunk, speaks rudely but delivers Darnay’s message of thanks to Lucie. Later, Carton invites Darnay to dine with him. During dinner, Carton drinks heavily and acts carelessly. He points out how much they look alike yet live very different lives. When Darnay thanks him for his help, Carton admits he has no friends, no purpose, and feels like a “disappointed drudge.” He envies Darnay’s honor and believes no one cares for him. After Darnay leaves, Carton looks in a mirror, bitterly comparing himself to Darnay, regretting what he has become. He drinks more wine and falls asleep at the table.

Chapters V & VI –The Jackal & Hundreds of People: Sydney Carton works closely with Mr. Stryver, a successful lawyer. Stryver is ambitious and rising quickly in his career. Carton, however, wastes his talent on drinking and doing other people’s work. Stryver is called the “lion,” and Carton is the “jackal,” because he prepares all the hard parts of cases for Stryver to present in court.

Late at night, after a long day, Carton goes to Stryver’s office to work. They drink heavily while Carton organizes legal papers. Stryver praises Carton’s clever thinking during Darnay’s trial but also criticizes his lack of ambition. Carton admits that he has wasted his life and feels hopeless. He recalls being lazy and purposeless even during his school days. Despite his intelligence, he believes luck and determination were never on his side.

They talk about Lucie Manette, whom Stryver calls beautiful. Carton denies her beauty, even though he noticed her during the trial. Deep down, he feels unworthy of her or of any good life. As dawn breaks, he leaves Stryver’s house and walks home through a cold and lifeless London. For a brief moment, he imagines a better future filled with purpose and honor. But the dream fades quickly, and he returns to his lonely, wasted life, falling asleep in tears.

Hundreds of People: Four months after Darnay’s trial, Mr. Jarvis Lorry visits Dr. Manette and Lucie on a Sunday afternoon in Soho. Their home is quiet and warm, filled with small, tasteful decorations made by Lucie. Miss Pross, Lucie’s devoted servant and protector, greets Lorry. She complains that “hundreds of people” come seeking Lucie’s attention, though she exaggerates the number. Miss Pross is fiercely loyal and fears losing Lucie’s love to outsiders.

Lorry asks Miss Pross about Dr. Manette’s past imprisonment. She says the doctor never talks about it, but sometimes walks restlessly at night, haunted by memories. Lucie comforts him silently during those times.

Lucie and Dr. Manette soon return home from a walk, followed later by Charles Darnay. They all dine together under a tree in the yard. Darnay tells a story about an old dungeon in the Tower of London. Prisoners had carved words and letters into the walls, and one had scratched the word “DIG” near a hidden, burned document. This story disturbs Dr. Manette, but he hides his reaction and blames it on raindrops startling him.

That evening, Sydney Carton visits. As they sit in the heavy summer air, thunder rumbles in the distance. Lucie imagines the echoing footsteps in the streets as symbols of people who will one day enter their lives. The storm grows fierce, with lightning and rain crashing down. Later that night, as Mr. Lorry walks home with Jerry Cruncher, he reflects on the strange, almost haunting night, wondering if a great crowd of unseen people is moving toward their future.

Chapters VII & VIII –  Monseigneur in Town & Monseigneur in the Country: In Paris, Monseigneur, a powerful nobleman, holds his regular reception at his luxurious hotel. Many wealthy and important people gather there to show their respect and seek his favor. Monseigneur is served chocolate by four richly dressed men, showing his extravagant lifestyle and pride. The rooms are filled with decorated officials, corrupt officers, false doctors, and philosophers who speak of change but do nothing. Outside this rich life, poor people in rags suffer and starve, creating a sharp contrast between the rich and the poor.

After the reception, a man leaves angrily, cursing Monseigneur’s name. This man, the Marquis St. Evrémonde, drives away in his fast carriage through the crowded streets. The reckless driver nearly runs over people. At a street corner, his horses strike and kill a poor child. The father screams in grief while others remain silent out of fear. The Marquis only blames the people for being in his way. He throws a gold coin to the father as payment for his loss. Another coin is given to Defarge, a wine shop owner, who tries to comfort the grieving man. The Marquis shows no sorrow, threatening the crowd before leaving. A coin is thrown back into his carriage in anger, but no one dares to protest. The Marquis rides away safely, while the poor return to their silent suffering.

Monseigneur in the Country: The Marquis later travels through the French countryside. The land is dry and poor, producing only small, rough crops. The people are starving, heavily taxed by the church, the state, and local lords. Misery and hopelessness can be seen on every face.

As the Marquis approaches a village, a mender of roads tells him about a strange man seen earlier clinging to the carriage’s chain and then escaping down a hillside. The Marquis shows no concern and orders the local tax officer, Gabelle, to watch for strangers in the area.

On the way, a poor woman stops his carriage. She begs for a small wooden marker to put on her husband’s grave so it will not be forgotten. He had died of hunger, like many others. The Marquis refuses to help and leaves her crying behind.

That night, the Marquis finally reaches his large country home. The house is well-lit and guarded, showing the sharp difference between his wealth and the desperate poverty of the people he passed on the road. He asks if his nephew, Charles Darnay, has arrived from England, but learns he has not yet come.

Chapters IX & X– The Gorgon’s Head and Two Promises: At night, the Marquis St. Evrémonde reaches his grand stone chateau. The building appears lifeless and cold, like a place turned to stone by a Gorgon’s gaze. The Marquis walks through the quiet halls to his private rooms, where supper is prepared. He waits for his nephew, Charles Darnay, who arrives late from Paris. 

The uncle and nephew dine together but share a tense conversation. Darnay accuses his family of cruelty and oppression toward the poor. He believes their name is hated throughout France because of past injustices. The Marquis disagrees, saying that fear keeps people obedient and that noble privilege must be maintained. Darnay declares he will not continue the family tradition. If the property ever becomes his, he plans to free the suffering peasants and leave France to live by honest work. The Marquis mocks him but calmly accepts his words, hinting that he knows about Darnay’s connection to Doctor Manette and Lucie. The discussion ends with no agreement between them.

Later that night, the Marquis prepares for sleep. He recalls the events of his journey, including the grieving father of the dead child in Paris. The night is silent for hours until morning light appears. When the chateau awakens, chaos erupts. Servants rush about, bells ring, and people gather in alarm. The Marquis has been murdered in his bed. A knife is driven into his heart, and a note beside it reads, “Drive him fast to his tomb. This, from Jacques.” This message hints at revenge from oppressed peasants, part of a growing secret revolutionary force.

Two Promises: Months pass. Charles Darnay now lives in England, working as a French tutor and translator. He is successful and respected, but his thoughts are often with Lucie Manette, whom he secretly loves. He decides to ask Doctor Manette for permission to express his feelings to Lucie.

One evening, Darnay visits Doctor Manette while Lucie is away. He confesses his deep, sincere love for her but promises never to separate her from her father. The Doctor listens quietly, showing signs of old pain and fear. He finally agrees to give Darnay his blessing if Lucie chooses him. He promises to support their marriage if it would make his daughter truly happy.

Darnay offers to reveal his real family name and his reason for living in England. But Doctor Manette refuses to hear it yet. He says that Darnay must tell him only on his wedding morning if Lucie accepts him. They part on good terms, and Darnay leaves.

Later that night, Lucie comes home and cannot find her father. She hears a strange hammering sound from his room. She peeks in and sees him working at his old shoemaking bench, as he did during his years of imprisonment. Frightened, she watches silently. Eventually, he joins her, and they walk together until he calms down. Still, the tools remain on his table, a haunting sign that his past suffering is never far from him.

Chapters XI & XII – Stryver’s Proposal and Change of Mind: Late at night, Sydney Carton works hard in his chambers, finishing legal documents for Mr. Stryver. They talk while Sydney makes a bowl of punch. Stryver suddenly announces that he intends to marry, not for money but for personal happiness. He reveals that he plans to propose to Lucie Manette, calling her a “golden-haired doll,” a name Sydney once used. Sydney listens quietly and shows little emotion about the news. Stryver suggests Sydney should marry, too, saying it would help him have someone to care for him. Sydney makes no promise except to “think about it.”

The next day, Stryver decides to visit Lucie to make his proposal before leaving town for the vacation. He feels confident that Lucie will accept because of his wealth and rising status. On his way, he stops at Tellson’s Bank to speak with Mr. Lorry, a trusted friend of Lucie’s family. Stryver proudly declares his intention to propose to Lucie.

Mr. Lorry listens carefully and gives unexpected advice. He tells Stryver that Lucie may not return his feelings and that proposing might embarrass everyone involved. Stryver is surprised but agrees to let Mr. Lorry visit Soho first to learn the truth.

That night, Mr. Lorry returns and confirms that Lucie does not love Stryver. Hearing this, Stryver pretends that he never seriously intended to propose. He acts as though Lucie would have refused because she is a foolish, “empty-headed girl.” He insists that he is relieved the matter is settled and claims that he was wise not to go to her. Mr. Lorry is left confused, but Stryver feels satisfied, believing he has saved himself from rejection by rewriting the story in his favor. 

Chapters XIII & XIV – The Fellow of No Delicacy and The Honest Tradesman: Sydney Carton often wandered near Lucie Manette’s house, feeling lost and unhappy. One August day, he gathered courage and went inside to speak to her. Lucie welcomed him kindly but noticed he looked unwell. He admitted that his way of living was unhealthy and shameful. Lucie urged him to change, but he said it was too late. With tears in his eyes, he confessed that his life had been wasted.

Sydney then opened his heart to her. He said that if he could have loved her and been worthy of her, he would have done anything to win her. But he knew he was unworthy and could only bring her pain. Lucie tried to encourage him to change, but he believed it was impossible. He told her that meeting her had been the last dream of his broken life. She had inspired him to think of becoming a better man, but it would never happen.

Sydney asked Lucie to keep his words a secret and remember that he had once trusted her with his feelings. He promised never to mention it again. Before leaving, he said he would do anything—even give his life—to protect Lucie or anyone dear to her. Lucie was deeply moved and saddened as he left, knowing how much he had suffered.

The Honest Tradesman: Meanwhile, Jerry Cruncher spent his days sitting outside Tellson’s Bank with his young son, watching the busy streets. One day, they saw a noisy funeral procession. The crowd shouted angrily that the dead man, Roger Cly, had been a spy. The crowd hijacked the funeral, mocking it and turning it into a wild parade before burying the man in their own disorderly way.  

That night, Jerry warned his wife not to pray against his “honest business.” Later, he prepared tools, saying he was going “fishing.” Young Jerry secretly followed his father through the dark streets. Jerry met two other men, and together they sneaked into a graveyard. Young Jerry watched in fear as they dug up a coffin and opened it. Terrified, the boy ran home, imagining the coffin chasing him.

The next morning, Jerry was in a bad mood and argued with his wife. Young Jerry, curious about what he had seen, asked what a “Resurrection-Man” was. His father explained vaguely that it was a kind of “scientific trade,” hinting that he made money by digging up bodies. Jerry then hoped his son would one day “develop his talents” and be a blessing to the family. 

Chapters XV & XVI – Knitting the Fate of Enemies: Early one Wednesday morning, many people gathered at Defarge’s wine shop. They were poor and gloomy, drinking cheap wine or listening to whispers about news. Madame Defarge served the wine while her husband was away. The men seemed more interested in talk than drink, waiting for something important to happen.

Later that day, Monsieur Defarge entered the wine shop with a dusty road-mender, called Jacques. They had traveled together from the countryside. Several men slipped out quietly, knowing a secret meeting was planned. After the road-mender ate his bread and drank wine, Defarge led him to a garret above the shop. Three other men waited there.

The road-mender told his story. A year ago, he saw a tall man hanging under the carriage of the Marquis. Months later, he witnessed the same man captured by soldiers, bound tightly, beaten, and dragged to prison. Days passed, and the prisoner remained locked high in an iron cage, dusty and bloody, staring like a dead man. Villagers whispered about his fate, hoping he would be spared. Some believed he would face cruel torture and death, like another man punished years ago.

Finally, one Sunday, soldiers built a gallows forty feet high. The prisoner was gagged, tied, and hanged before everyone. His body remained hanging, casting a shadow over the village, poisoning its well, and frightening children and women. The road-mender said he left the village the next day and walked to Paris. 

The secret group, calling each other Jacques, decided to mark the Marquis’s entire family for destruction. Madame Defarge would keep their names in her secret knitted register. Defarge promised to show the road-mender the wealth and arrogance of royalty, to make him thirst for revenge.

On Sunday, Madame Defarge, her husband, and the road-mender traveled to Versailles. They joined crowds watching the King and Queen in a golden coach surrounded by noblemen and ladies. The road-mender shouted “Long live the King!” with joy, carried away by the show. Afterward, Defarge told him the rich are cruel and blind to suffering, and their end is near. Madame added that poor people like him would always pick the richest prey if given power.

That night, Defarge worried about how long their fight for justice would take. Madame replied that revenge was like lightning or an earthquake—it took time to prepare, but it never stopped moving forward. She believed victory would come, even if they didn’t live to see it.

The next day, Madame sat knitting in the shop. A man entered. He was a spy named John Barsad. She secretly recognized him by his appearance and began knitting his name into her list. Barsad pretended to sympathize with Gaspard’s execution, hoping to learn if people were angry. Madame denied any knowledge. Barsad then revealed that Lucie Manette would marry Charles Darnay, the Marquis’s nephew. This troubled Defarge, but Madame remained calm, saying destiny would decide Darnay’s end.

After Barsad left, Madame removed a rose from her hair, signaling safety. The customers returned. That evening, Madame walked among the women of Saint Antoine. They knitted endlessly, replacing hunger with restless hands. Their eyes and thoughts burned with anger against the rich. Night fell with church bells and drums ringing in the distance. Another kind of darkness—the coming revolution—was slowly closing in, as the women knitted and silently counted the future heads that would fall. 

Chapters XVII & XVIII– One Night & Nine Days: On the evening before Lucie Manette’s wedding, she and her father sat quietly under the plane-tree in their garden in Soho. The setting sun and rising moon made everything peaceful and beautiful. Lucie had saved this special evening just for her father. They talked gently about her future and their deep love for each other.

Lucie told her father how happy she was to marry Charles Darnay, but she also worried. She feared that her new life might make her father feel left behind or forgotten. She promised that her love and duty to him would never change. Dr. Manette assured her that he was truly happy. He said her marriage gave him hope and peace.

The Doctor then shared painful memories from his years in prison. He spoke of how the moonlight had once brought him sadness, reminding him of the family he had lost. He described imagining a daughter he never knew—wondering if she was alive, happy, or even aware he existed. Lucie listened with love and sorrow. She reminded him that she was that daughter and promised always to love him and honor his suffering. They embraced with tears and gratitude, and then went back inside.

The next morning was the wedding day. Mr. Lorry and Miss Pross admired Lucie in her simple, beautiful dress. Miss Pross, though proud and happy, still wished her brother Solomon had been the groom. Mr. Lorry gave Lucie and Charles a generous gift of silver tableware, which made Miss Pross cry with joy.

Soon, Dr. Manette and Charles Darnay came out of a private room, ready for the ceremony. But Mr. Lorry noticed something strange: Dr. Manette looked pale and dazed, as if haunted by an old fear. Still, he calmly led Lucie to the carriage, and they went to a nearby church. The quiet wedding went well, and Charles and Lucie were married.

After a joyful breakfast, Lucie said goodbye to her father. She hugged him tightly, and he gently told Charles, “Take her. She is yours.” Lucie waved from the carriage window as she left with her new husband.

But something was wrong. As Dr. Manette returned to the quiet house, Mr. Lorry saw that a deep change had come over him. He looked distant and frightened, like the broken man he had once been in prison. When Dr. Manette went to his room, Mr. Lorry heard a strange knocking sound. Miss Pross cried out in fear.

They found Dr. Manette sitting at his old shoemaker’s bench, making shoes just as he had done during his time in prison. He did not recognize Mr. Lorry. His face looked tired and lost, and he worked silently and obsessively. When asked questions, he only muttered short, confused replies.

Mr. Lorry and Miss Pross agreed to keep this a secret from Lucie. They told others that the doctor was away on business. Mr. Lorry stayed in the house to watch over him, canceling his work at Tellson’s Bank. Every day, he sat quietly near Dr. Manette, never interrupting his shoemaking, hoping his presence would help. 

Nine Days: For nine long days, Dr. Manette worked on shoes with growing speed and skill, as if trapped in his old prison mind. On some days, he would pause and look around with confusion. Mr. Lorry and Miss Pross tried to speak to him gently, mentioning Lucie and the wedding. He seemed to hear them but said nothing.

Each night, they took turns watching him. Mr. Lorry once invited him for a walk, but Dr. Manette only repeated the word “Out?” without moving. On another evening, he sat briefly at the window, looking at the plane-tree, but then returned to his bench.

By the ninth night, the situation felt hopeless. Dr. Manette had become more skilled and focused on his shoemaking than ever before. Mr. Lorry’s heart grew heavy with worry, but he still hoped for a sign that the real Dr. Manette would return. 

Chapters XIX & XX– An Opinion & A Plea: After nine difficult days, Mr. Lorry fell asleep while watching over Doctor Manette. On the tenth morning, he woke up and was surprised. The shoemaker’s tools were gone, and Doctor Manette was sitting by the window reading. He looked calm but pale. Mr. Lorry was unsure if the past days were real or just a bad dream. But Miss Pross soon confirmed the strange days had really happened.

Mr. Lorry and Miss Pross decided not to speak of the episode right away. They met Doctor Manette at breakfast and acted as if everything was normal. The doctor, at first, believed Lucie’s wedding had been just the day before. But when reminded of the date, he looked worried. Still, he behaved normally otherwise.

After breakfast, Mr. Lorry asked for the doctor’s advice on a “friend’s” case, pretending it wasn’t about him. Doctor Manette listened closely and understood right away that the case was his own. He was moved by the care taken to hide his illness from Lucie. He agreed that the relapse was caused by painful old memories that had suddenly returned with great force.

Mr. Lorry asked if such an attack might return. The doctor thought it was unlikely. He said the worst was probably over, as he had recovered quickly this time. Mr. Lorry also asked if the doctor worked too hard. The doctor replied that staying busy helped his mind. He didn’t believe that overwork could cause another relapse—only painful memories could do that.

Finally, Mr. Lorry asked if it was time to remove the shoemaking bench. The doctor struggled with this idea. He explained that, in prison, shoemaking had been a great comfort. Even now, the thought of losing that bench made him afraid. But in the end, he agreed. For Lucie’s sake, the bench should be quietly removed when he was away.

A few days later, Doctor Manette left to visit Lucie and Charles. That night, Mr. Lorry and Miss Pross destroyed the shoemaker’s bench. They burned the pieces and buried the tools in the garden. Though they knew it was the right thing, they felt like they were committing a crime.

A Plea: Not long after the couple returned home, Sydney Carton visited them to offer his congratulations. He looked the same—untidy and careless, but something about him had changed. He asked Charles Darnay if they could be friends. Charles agreed politely. Carton said he didn’t just mean polite friendship—he wanted to be trusted.

Carton reminded Charles of a past conversation when he had been drunk and rude. He hoped Charles had forgotten it. Charles said he had. But Carton confessed it still haunted him. He admitted he felt worthless and had done little good in life. Still, he asked Charles if he could visit sometimes, like an old piece of furniture, always welcome but unnoticed.

Charles accepted his request with kindness. They shook hands and Carton left quietly. Later that evening, Charles mentioned the talk to Lucie. He said Carton seemed careless and hopeless. Lucie, however, had seen something deeper in Carton.

When they were alone, Lucie asked Charles to be kind to Carton. She believed he had a wounded heart and was capable of good. She had seen pain in him and wanted her husband to treat him gently. Charles was touched by her words and promised to always remember them.

Lucie’s compassion brought hope for Sydney Carton. Though he was lost to many, she still believed in his worth. Her love and gentleness planted a seed of goodness in his troubled soul.

Chapter XXI– Echoing Footsteps: Lucie lived in a quiet corner of London. It was known for echoes, which seemed to reflect her peaceful life. She cared deeply for her father, husband, daughter, and Miss Pross. Lucie often listened to the “echoing footsteps” of time, thinking of the past and future. At times, she felt happy. But sometimes, she felt sadness and fear, as if something was coming.

Her sadness faded when her daughter, little Lucie, was born. The child’s laughter filled their home. Lucie found joy in motherhood and peace in her daily life. Her love and care connected the whole family. Even moments of sorrow, like the death of her baby son, were softened by her faith and comfort in heaven. Sydney Carton visited them quietly, only a few times each year. He never spoke much, but little Lucie liked him. Even the dying little boy remembered Carton kindly. Though Carton lived a hard life, he stayed close to the family.

Meanwhile, Mr. Stryver became a successful lawyer. He married a rich widow and had three sons. He once offered Charles Darnay work as their tutor, but Darnay refused. Stryver was angry and often told lies about Lucie. He said she had once tried to marry him.

Lucie listened to the echoes of all these events while raising her daughter. She stayed calm and loving, guiding the home with care. Her father always praised her. Her husband also admired how she helped everyone without ever seeming tired.

But new echoes began to reach London. These were not peaceful. They came from France and sounded like danger. By the time little Lucie turned six, a storm had begun.

On a July night in 1789, Mr. Lorry came home from Tellson’s Bank. He was tired and worried. Business in Paris was changing. People were sending their money to England. Darnay and Lucie also felt uneasy.

That same day, across the sea in Paris, the streets of Saint Antoine were filled with angry people. The crowd was wild and armed. They wanted freedom and revenge. Their leader was Defarge, the wine-shop owner. His wife, Madame Defarge, carried weapons too.

The mob marched to the Bastille, a prison that symbolized tyranny. They screamed “To the Bastille!” and began the attack. For hours, they fought fiercely. Defarge helped fire the cannons. Madame Defarge led the women.

Finally, the drawbridge was taken down. The mob rushed in. Inside the prison, Defarge demanded to see a certain cell. It was Number 105, North Tower. A guard led him there. On the wall, Defarge saw the name “A.M.”—Alexandre Manette, Lucie’s father.

Defarge searched the room for any secret messages. He and Jacques Three burned the old furniture and left. Then, the crowd took the governor of the Bastille and killed him in the street. Madame Defarge helped lead this violent act.

The revolution had begun. Seven freed prisoners were raised in celebration. But seven heads were also raised on pikes. Letters, old records, and the prison keys were shown to the people.

These bloody footsteps were now echoing toward London. Lucie could not hear them yet. But they were coming fast, and they were not easy to forget. 

Chapters XXII & XXIII: The Sea Still Rises and Fire Rises: In Saint Antoine, only a week had passed since the Bastille fell. Madame Defarge sat in her wine shop, watching the street. The people looked poor but powerful. They knew they could destroy life easily. The knitting women’s fingers were tense with anger. Madame Defarge approved silently, with her lieutenant, The Vengeance, beside her. 

Suddenly, there was news. Defarge entered breathless. Old Foulon, who once told starving people to eat grass, had been found alive. He had faked his death and hidden in the country. Now he was caught and taken to the Hotel de Ville. The crowd screamed for revenge. The Vengeance began to beat her drum, and women ran through the streets calling others to join. Men and women armed themselves quickly. 

Soon, the Hall of Examination was packed. Madame Defarge pointed at Foulon, tied with ropes and grass on his back. The crowd roared approval. After hours of waiting, the people broke through and seized him. They dragged him through the streets, stuffing grass into his mouth. Twice the rope broke when they tried to hang him. The third time it was held, and his head was placed on a pike with grass in his mouth.

Later, the crowd heard that Foulon’s son-in-law was entering Paris with a large guard. They captured him, killed him, and set his head and heart on pikes. The three trophies were carried through the streets. At night, people returned home, hungry but proud. They waited in lines for bad bread, talking about their “victories.” Families played with their children, and lovers still hoped for the future. Madame Defarge and The Vengeance finally slept.

Far away, in a small village, the mender of roads still worked. The countryside was ruined. People were starving. The rich nobles, or Monseigneurs, had taken everything for years and now fled. Strange, rough men began to appear in the land. One such man met the mender of roads. They spoke briefly and planned to meet at sunset.

That night, the village gathered outside, whispering and watching the sky. The wind rose around the nearby chateau. Four fierce figures moved toward it. Soon, flames broke out in its windows. The fire grew until the whole building blazed. A rider from the chateau begged the soldiers for help, but they refused.

The villagers lit candles in their homes, even borrowing them from Monsieur Gabelle, the tax collector. The fire consumed the chateau completely. Four burning towers collapsed, and molten metal ran into the fountain. The four figures left in different directions, ready for more destruction.

The villagers then surrounded Gabelle’s house, demanding to see him. Gabelle locked himself inside and later climbed to the roof, ready to jump if attacked. By morning, the people left, and Gabelle survived for the time. But in other places, officials and villagers died in the spreading revolt. The fires and executions moved steadily across France, East, West, North, and South.

Chapter XXIV – Drawn to the Loadstone Rock: Three years had passed since the revolution began. In that time, little Lucie had turned three more years old. Lucie’s home remained calm and loving, but the sound of danger echoed in her ears. These were the sounds of footsteps, of people marching under the red flag in France. The people had changed into angry crowds. 

The nobles of France, called “Monseigneur,” had lost power. Many had escaped France in fear. Their lives were in danger now. They used to think they were untouchable, but now they were running away. The royal court had fallen. The king and queen were overthrown.

Many of the fleeing nobles came to London. They often gathered at Tellson’s Bank. They brought news from France. They looked for help and money. Tellson’s had become a center for news. Messages from France came there first. Mr. Lorry, a worker at the bank, helped many refugees.

On a warm and misty afternoon, Mr. Lorry sat at his desk. Charles Darnay stood beside him. They talked quietly. Mr. Lorry was planning a trip to Paris. He needed to save important bank papers. Darnay was worried. He said the trip was dangerous. But Mr. Lorry felt safe because of his age. He believed no one would harm an old man.

Mr. Lorry explained the risk to the bank. He had to move or hide the documents quickly. He said only he could do it properly. Darnay admired Mr. Lorry’s courage and spirit. Mr. Lorry planned to leave that night with Jerry Cruncher. Jerry was loyal and looked tough.

Meanwhile, Darnay felt uneasy. He had deep thoughts about France. He had once given up his noble title to escape the cruelty of his family’s name. He had tried to live a quiet life in England. But he now felt that maybe he should do something to help.

While they spoke, Stryver arrived. He loudly insulted the French people and called for violence. Darnay felt angry but stayed calm. Just then, a man from the bank brought Mr. Lorry a letter. The letter was addressed to “Monsieur heretofore the Marquis St. Evrémonde.”

Darnay saw the letter was for him. It used his real, secret name. Years ago, Dr. Manette had asked Darnay to keep that name a secret. Mr. Lorry didn’t know the truth.

The letter came from France. It was written by Monsieur Gabelle. He had once worked for Darnay’s family. In the letter, Gabelle begged Darnay to come save him. He was in prison for working in the name of an “emigrant”—a noble who had left France. He had obeyed Darnay’s orders to be kind to the people. But now he faced death.

Reading the letter shook Darnay. He felt guilty. He remembered how he had failed to fix things properly. He had left France quickly and never returned. He had given up his wealth but not truly helped anyone.

Darnay decided to go to Paris. He felt called, like a sailor pulled toward a magnet rock. He believed he could help. He thought he might bring peace or mercy. He did not see the danger clearly.

He chose not to tell Lucie or Dr. Manette. He wanted to spare them fear and worry. He wrote letters to both of them. In the letters, he explained why he had to go. He promised to write again from Paris.

That night, he kissed Lucie and little Lucie goodbye. He pretended he had another reason to go out. He had already packed a bag. He left the letters to be delivered later. Then he set off for Dover.

As he rode away, Darnay thought of Gabelle’s final plea. “For the love of justice and honour!” These words echoed in his heart. He left his happy home behind and went toward danger.

Book the Third: The Track of a Storm

 

Chapters I & II – “In Secret” and “The Grindstone”: Charles Darnay traveled through France toward Paris. It was the year 1792. The roads were muddy, and guards stopped him often. The revolution had made travel hard and dangerous. Soldiers checked his papers again and again. Every village gate felt like a prison door behind him. Darnay realized he could not go back. He had to reach Paris first.

He carried a letter from Gabelle, the man who had begged him for help. Without that letter, Darnay might not have passed the many guards. One night, he rested at a small inn. Suddenly, men entered his room. They wore red caps and carried guns. One shouted, “Peace, aristocrat!” Another said he must go to Paris under arrest.

In the cold rain, Darnay rode between two armed guards. He controlled his horse, but they tied a rope to his bridle. One of the guards was drunk. Darnay feared the trip would get worse. He hoped his honesty would protect him. Still, fear grew inside him.

At the town of Beauvais, a crowd gathered. People shouted, “Down with the emigrant!” and “Traitor!” One man tried to attack him. The postmaster stopped the man and guided Darnay into the inn. Darnay asked about a law the man had mentioned. The postmaster explained: emigrants’ property would be sold, and those who returned might be killed. Darnay realized this new law had passed on the very day he left England. 

Later that night, they traveled again. Many towns had strange scenes. Some people danced around liberty trees at midnight. Others sang songs of freedom. Sleep seemed rare in revolutionary France. Many cottages still had candles burning late into the night.

Finally, Darnay reached Paris. The gate to the city was heavily guarded. A man asked for his papers. Darnay explained he came freely and had paid for his escort. But the man ignored him and read the letter from Gabelle. The guards led Darnay into a dark guardroom.

Inside, a harsh officer asked questions. He wanted Darnay’s age, marriage details, and his wife’s location. Then he gave an order: Darnay would be sent to La Force prison. Darnay was shocked. He begged for a chance to speak, but the officer said, “Emigrants have no rights.”

Defarge, the wine-shop owner, was the one who received the order. He led Darnay through the dark streets. Darnay tried to talk to him. Defarge refused to help. He only said, “My duty is to my country.” Darnay asked to send a message to Mr. Lorry. Defarge refused that too.

On the way, they passed people shouting about the crimes of kings. Darnay learned for the first time that the king was now a prisoner. He now understood the full danger. Still, he had hope. He thought things might get better.

At La Force prison, guards led Darnay inside. The jailer complained. “How many more?” he said. The prison was dark, dirty, and smelled bad. Darnay waited half an hour. Then he was taken into a large room filled with men and women prisoners. They were polite and kind. One man welcomed Darnay. But when they heard he was “in secret,” they felt sorry for him. He was led away again and locked in a small cell.

The cell was cold and damp. Darnay asked for paper and ink. The jailer said no. He could only buy food. The room had a chair, a table, and a straw mattress. Darnay felt as if he were already dead. He began walking back and forth, counting the steps. Five paces by four and a half. The sounds of the city echoed like distant drums.

Mr. Lorry stayed at Tellson’s Bank in Paris. He sat by a fire, worried about the future. The bank building once belonged to a nobleman. That nobleman had fled disguised as a cook. Now, the house had been taken over by revolutionaries.

Outside, a large grindstone stood in the courtyard. Mr. Lorry opened the window and looked out. He shivered with fear. Strange, terrible noises came from the streets.

Suddenly, the gate bell rang. Mr. Lorry waited anxiously. The door opened—and Lucie and Doctor Manette rushed in. Lucie cried out, “My husband!” Mr. Lorry was shocked. Lucie explained: Charles had come to Paris secretly. He had been arrested and sent to La Force.

At that moment, the bell rang again. Loud footsteps filled the courtyard. Mr. Lorry shouted, “Don’t look!” But Doctor Manette calmly said no one would harm him. He had been a prisoner in the Bastille. People would respect him now.

Then they looked out the window. What they saw was horrifying. A mob of people gathered around the grindstone. Men and women were sharpening weapons—knives, swords, bayonets. Their faces were wild, bloody, and insane. Sparks flew as the grindstone spun. All of them were stained with blood.

Mr. Lorry whispered, “They are murdering the prisoners.” He begged Doctor Manette to act fast. “Go to La Force. Save Charles if you can!”

Doctor Manette ran out into the mob. His white hair and calm face stopped them. They cheered him. He shouted for help, calling for the Bastille prisoner’s family to be saved. The crowd surrounded him and led him away.

Mr. Lorry shut the window and went to Lucie. He told her that her father was safe and had gone to help Charles. Lucie fainted from worry. Miss Pross and little Lucie were with her.

The night dragged on. Lucie moaned in fear. Twice more the bell rang. The grindstone spun again. Mr. Lorry said the weapons were being sharpened. The courtyard had become an armory.

At dawn, the sun rose red. The grindstone stood still. A man covered in blood crawled into a noble’s carriage to rest. But the grindstone kept its red stain—one the sun would never remove. 

Chapters III & IV – The Shadow and Calm in Storm: Mr. Lorry worried about Lucie and her child. He could not risk Tellson’s Bank by keeping them there. He was willing to risk his own life. But he had to protect the bank’s reputation and safety. 

At first, Mr. Lorry thought of asking Defarge for help. But Defarge lived in a dangerous part of Paris. Mr. Lorry thought it was too risky. Lucie told him her father had wanted to find a place nearby. Mr. Lorry went out and found a quiet lodging.

It was in a lonely square with closed houses. He moved Lucie, little Lucie, and Miss Pross there at once. He left Jerry Cruncher to guard them. Then Mr. Lorry went back to his work with a heavy heart. The day passed slowly for him.

Late at night, Mr. Lorry heard footsteps on the stairs. Defarge entered the room. He gave Mr. Lorry a note from Doctor Manette. The Doctor wrote that Charles was safe. But he could not leave La Force prison yet. Charles had also written a short message for Lucie.

Mr. Lorry asked Defarge to come with him. Defarge agreed. Madame Defarge and another woman called The Vengeance joined them. Mr. Lorry led them to Lucie’s lodging.

Lucie was alone and crying. Mr. Lorry gave her Charles’s note. She was full of joy and hope. She kissed Madame Defarge’s hand in thanks. But Madame Defarge did not respond. Her hand felt cold and heavy. She returned to her knitting without a word.

Lucie looked scared. Mr. Lorry explained that Madame Defarge wanted to recognize faces. She said it was for protection. But her cold look worried everyone. Miss Pross came into the room, full of pride. She greeted the women rudely, but they ignored her.

Madame Defarge pointed to little Lucie. She asked if the child was Charles’s daughter. Mr. Lorry said yes. Lucie quickly held her daughter close in fear. Madame Defarge said she had seen enough. She was ready to leave.

Lucie begged her to be kind to Charles. She asked for mercy. Madame Defarge said her husband was not her concern. She said Lucie’s father was. Lucie still begged. She asked for help as a wife and mother.

Madame Defarge stayed cold. She said poor women had suffered for years. She and her friends had seen pain since they were children. One woman’s suffering meant nothing to them now. She left with her group. 

Lucie felt frightened and hopeless. Mr. Lorry tried to cheer her. He said things were going better than for most. But he himself felt dark doubts inside.

Doctor Manette returned on the fourth day. Lucie did not know the horrors that happened during his absence. More than eleven hundred prisoners were killed. People of all ages were murdered in the prisons. Lucie only knew there had been violence and fear.

The Doctor told Mr. Lorry what happened. The crowd had taken him to La Force prison. A group of men acted as judges. They quickly sent prisoners to be freed or killed. Some were sent back to their cells. 

Doctor Manette announced his name and past. One of the judges was Defarge. He recognized the Doctor. The court honored Doctor Manette for his past suffering. He asked about Charles.

Charles was still alive in prison. Doctor Manette begged for his release. The judges agreed to bring Charles forward. He was almost set free, but something changed. The court president said Charles must stay. But they promised to keep him safe.

The Doctor asked to stay near Charles. The court allowed it. He stayed in the bloody prison hall until the danger passed. He had little food or rest. The joy of saving some prisoners amazed him. But the cruelty shocked him too.

One man was freed but stabbed by mistake. The Doctor went out to help him. A group of killers treated the wounded man gently. They helped carry him away. Then they returned to killing more people. The Doctor fainted at the horror.

Mr. Lorry feared these things might break the Doctor’s mind again. But he saw something new in him. The Doctor was now strong and confident. He believed he could save Charles. He saw purpose in his past pain.

The Doctor used his medical skill to gain influence. He became an official prison doctor. He visited three prisons, including La Force. He saw Charles every week. He brought Lucie kind messages from her husband. Sometimes Charles sent letters too. But Lucie could not reply.

People suspected anyone who had foreign ties. So she was not allowed to write. Still, the Doctor took pride in his new work. He felt powerful and helpful. He gave strength to Lucie and Mr. Lorry. He became their guide and hope.

The revolution grew more violent. The king was killed. The queen followed. The people of France rose in great numbers. The country was filled with hatred and bloodshed.

New laws made it easy to arrest anyone. Prisons were packed with innocent people. The guillotine became the symbol of justice. People joked about it. Some wore models of it instead of crosses. It became a feared and worshipped tool.

Heads fell quickly and often. In one morning, twenty-two people died under it. The executioner was feared more than the heroes of old. Yet, through all this, Doctor Manette stayed steady.

He was respected across Paris. He walked safely among enemies and killers. His past as a prisoner protected him. He helped both the innocent and the guilty. No one harmed him. He was like a spirit among the living.

Though more than a year had passed, Charles was still in prison. The terror around them grew worse. People were drowned or shot every day. But the Doctor never gave up hope. He believed he would save Lucie’s husband in the end. 

Chapters V & VI –The Wood-Sawyer and the Trial of Charles Darnay:  Lucie lived in fear every day. She thought her husband might die at any moment. The Guillotine killed many people daily. Victims came from all classes and ages. The streets echoed with death and cries for the Republic. Yet, Lucie remained strong and hopeful. She kept her home clean and tidy. She taught little Lucie regularly. She left Charles’s chair and books untouched. Every night she prayed for him. She trusted her father completely.

Doctor Manette came home one evening with news. Charles might be seen from a prison window. At 3 p.m., if lucky, he could look down. Lucie couldn’t wave or make signs. But she was ready. Every day, in all weather, she stood in the same place. Sometimes she took her daughter. Other times, she went alone. She never missed a single day.

A wood-sawyer worked in a hut near the prison. He noticed Lucie and often spoke to her. He joked about his saw, calling it his “Little Guillotine.” Lucie feared him but stayed friendly. She gave him small tips to stay safe. When he saw her looking sad, he said, “It’s not my business,” and returned to work.

One December afternoon, Lucie reached the corner. It was a festival day. Decorations filled the streets. The wood-sawyer’s shop displayed signs and slogans. Lucie was relieved to see he was not there. But soon a large crowd appeared. The wood-sawyer danced with The Vengeance. The mob danced the Carmagnole—wild and frightening. It was not a joyful dance. It was loud and violent, filled with madness.

Lucie was terrified but safe. Her father found her and comforted her. He told her Charles had climbed to the window. She could wave to him now. She did so with tears and love. Suddenly, Madame Defarge walked past them. She said nothing. She was like a dark shadow. Doctor Manette told Lucie to appear calm. Then, he said Charles would be tried tomorrow. Lucie was shocked. Her father reassured her again. He had made every plan. He believed Charles would be saved.

They went to Tellson’s Bank to find Mr. Lorry. On the way, they saw signs of the Revolution. The once grand home of Monseigneur now stood ruined. Inside the Bank, someone new had arrived. Mr. Lorry ran to greet Lucie. The new guest had just learned Charles would face trial.

The next day, Charles was summoned. His name was called at La Force prison. Prisoners stepped forward when their names were read. Some were already dead or forgotten. Charles had seen many die. Now, it was his turn.

The court was full and noisy. Five judges and a jury led the trial. Charles stood accused as an emigrant. The crowd shouted, “Take off his head!” The President silenced them. He asked Charles if he had lived in England. Charles said yes. He had gone to work and not as an enemy. He gave the names of two witnesses—Gabelle and Doctor Manette.

Then he said he had married a French woman, Lucie Manette. When the people heard her name, they cried with joy. Doctor Manette’s name brought respect and tears. The mood changed. People who wanted Charles dead now cheered for him.

The President asked why Charles had returned. He explained he came back to help Gabelle. He had risked his life to tell the truth. The people liked his answer. They shouted, “No!” when asked if that was a crime. Gabelle confirmed Charles’s story. He said Charles had given himself up.

Doctor Manette then spoke. He was loved and trusted. He spoke calmly and truthfully. He said Charles was kind and loyal. He said Charles had been a friend since his release. Mr. Lorry confirmed the facts. The Jury was ready. Each man said “Not guilty.” Charles was free.

The crowd burst into tears and cheers. They hugged Charles, nearly making him faint. His trial had ended, but five others were already condemned. They would die the next day. They told Charles with sad dignity. Outside, the crowd waited. Charles searched for two familiar faces. He did not find them.

People lifted him in a chair. They covered it with a red flag and a red cap. They cheered and danced as they carried him home. Doctor Manette had gone ahead to prepare Lucie. When Charles entered, she fainted in his arms. He held her close, hiding her from the crowd.

As they reunited, people danced the Carmagnole again. They carried another woman as the “Goddess of Liberty.” Soon, the streets were full of shouting and red caps again. Charles, now free, kissed Lucie, little Lucie, Mr. Lorry, and Miss Pross. He thanked Doctor Manette. Lucie thanked God on her knees. Charles told her to speak to her father. He had saved him. The Doctor was proud. He had repaid his daughter’s love with her husband’s life.

Chapters VII & VIII – “A Knock at the Door” and “A Hand at Cards”: Lucie was with her husband, Charles. He was finally free. But she still felt afraid. Many innocent people were still dying. She feared he might be arrested again. Doctor Manette felt proud. He had saved his son-in-law. They lived quietly and spent very little. Charles had spent much in prison. He paid for food and helped poor prisoners. They had no servants, only Jerry Cruncher. He stayed with them at night. 

Every house in Paris had to list the names of its people. A painter added Charles’s name to their door. To stay safe, they bought food daily in small amounts. Miss Pross and Jerry did the shopping. Miss Pross didn’t know French. She bargained by showing fingers and pointing. Lucie stayed close to Charles. Her father told stories to her daughter.

Suddenly, Lucie heard footsteps. She thought soldiers were coming. Her father told her to stay calm. Then someone knocked loudly on the door. Lucie begged her father to hide Charles. But Doctor Manette said he had already saved him. He opened the door. Four men in red caps entered with guns and swords.

They arrested Charles again. One man said he saw Charles at the trial. Charles asked why he was arrested. They told him he would know tomorrow. Doctor Manette asked who accused him. They said he was denounced by the Defarges and one other person. The name would be revealed later. Charles was taken away to prison again.

Miss Pross and Jerry did not know what had happened. They walked through Paris streets to buy food. The city was cold and dangerous. People shouted and made weapons near the river. They stopped at a wine shop called “The Good Republican Brutus.” It was quieter than most. They went inside.

Miss Pross suddenly screamed. She saw her brother Solomon. He was shocked to see her, too. He told her not to call him Solomon. He was now using a false name. Jerry watched them closely. He remembered Solomon’s face. He was sure he had seen him before.

Then Sydney Carton walked in. He said the man was really John Barsad. He was a spy. Carton told him he had followed him from the prison. Carton wanted to speak with him in private. But first, he wanted to show Miss Pross he had a plan.

Jerry also recognized Barsad. He had seen him at Charles’s old trial. Carton called Barsad a “Sheep of the Prisons”—a spy working inside. He told Barsad that he could be exposed. Carton said Barsad had worked for both the French and English governments. That made him a traitor to both sides. 

Carton said Barsad had faked the death of Roger Cly. Jerry confirmed it. He said Cly was never in the coffin. He knew, because he had dug it up. Barsad was frightened. He knew his life was in danger. One word against him could lead to the guillotine.

Carton told Barsad he had a plan. He wanted Barsad’s help. He said he would explain it in private. Barsad agreed to meet Carton at Tellson’s Bank. Mr. Lorry was there. He remembered Barsad from the past and hated him.

Carton told them the worst news. Charles had been arrested again. Lorry was shocked. He had just left Charles safe. But Barsad admitted he saw the arrest happen. Carton said they must act fast. He said Doctor Manette might not be able to help again.

Carton explained his plan. He would play a dangerous game. He said he had a “losing card” to play. He wanted to win over Barsad. He listed all the secrets Barsad wanted to hide. Barsad grew more afraid.

Then Carton used one final trick. He brought up Roger Cly again. He said it looked like Cly was still alive. That meant Barsad had lied to the French. It was enough to have him executed. Carton now had full power over Barsad.

Barsad gave up. He agreed to help Carton. He said he could get into the prison. Carton said, “Come into the next room.” He would now tell Barsad his full plan—alone. 

Chapters IX–X: “The Game Made” and “The Substance of the Shadow”: Mr. Lorry waited in the dark room of Tellson’s Bank. Sydney Carton and John Barsad (the spy) were talking secretly nearby. Mr. Lorry looked at Jerry Cruncher with doubt. Jerry looked nervous and tried to avoid eye contact. Mr. Lorry asked what other job Jerry did besides being a messenger. Jerry said he was an “agricultural man,” meaning he dug up graves.

Mr. Lorry became angry. He accused Jerry of using Tellson’s Bank as a cover for illegal work. Jerry begged for mercy. He said others, like doctors and undertakers, also profited from death. He promised to stop his grave-digging. He asked Mr. Lorry to protect his son’s future. He said he would dig graves honestly from now on. Mr. Lorry agreed to consider it, but wanted action, not words.

Sydney Carton returned from the next room. He had made a deal with Barsad. He now had permission to visit Charles Darnay in prison if needed. Mr. Lorry was sad. He knew this visit would not save Darnay. Carton said he could do no more without risking Barsad’s life. He told Mr. Lorry not to tell Lucie about the plan. He didn’t want her to worry or misunderstand.

Carton asked Mr. Lorry about Lucie. Mr. Lorry said she looked sad but beautiful. Carton was moved. He thanked Mr. Lorry for being a good man and a friend. They spoke quietly by the fire. Carton helped Mr. Lorry put on his coat. Then they walked together through the streets.

Carton left Mr. Lorry at Lucie’s gate. He stayed behind and touched the door. He wanted to follow her steps. He walked to the prison where Lucie often visited. There, he met a wood-sawyer who joked about the guillotine. Carton felt anger but stayed calm. He went to a small chemist’s shop and bought some packets. He carefully placed them in his coat.

He walked the dark streets, thinking deeply. He remembered Bible words: “I am the resurrection and the life…” These words gave him peace. He passed houses with people sleeping. He walked by churches, now empty. He thought about the many who had died by the guillotine. He crossed the river and saw the moon. At dawn, he watched the sun rise and felt calm. He lay on the bank and slept.

In the morning, he returned to Tellson’s. Mr. Lorry was gone. Carton drank some coffee and went to the courthouse. The crowd was large and tense. Charles Darnay was on trial again. Lucie was there with her father. She looked at Charles with love and strength. Her look gave Charles hope. Carton stood in the crowd, quietly watching.

The trial was unfair. The judges and jury were cold and cruel. Charles was accused of being an enemy of the Republic. Three people had denounced him: Ernest Defarge, Thérèse Defarge, and Doctor Manette. The last name shocked everyone. Doctor Manette stood up and cried that it was false. He said he never accused his son-in-law. But the court ignored him. The President said that the Republic came before all else—even family.

Defarge then explained how he had found a letter hidden in the Bastille. It was written by Doctor Manette during his time in prison. He found it in a chimney, in Cell 105 North Tower. The letter was given to the court to be read aloud.

In the letter, Doctor Manette told the story of his arrest. Many years ago, the Evrémonde brothers—Charles’s father and uncle—had taken him to treat a poor peasant family. One brother had taken a young woman by force. He stabbed her husband and hurt her brother. The brother later died from wounds. The woman went mad and later died.

Doctor Manette tried to report the crime. But the Evrémondes imprisoned him to stay silent. Later, the wife of the younger Evrémonde visited the doctor. She was kind. She asked him to protect her child’s identity if she died. Then Doctor Manette was locked away for eighteen years.

The courtroom was silent as the letter ended. The people now saw Charles as part of a cruel noble family. They wanted revenge. The judges sentenced Charles to death. Lucie fainted. Doctor Manette was frozen in despair. The people cheered loudly.

Chapters XI & XII – “Dusk” and “Darkness”: Charles Darnay had been sentenced to death. His wife Lucie fainted but stayed strong. She believed she must support her husband, not make him sad. The judges left for a public event. Most people had gone outside. Only the guards, Barsad, and two men stayed in the courtroom. Lucie begged to touch her husband. Barsad allowed it. She was lifted over the seats and embraced Darnay.

Darnay kissed her and sent love to their daughter. Lucie promised to be brave until the end. She said that God would care for their child. Doctor Manette entered and tried to kneel. But Darnay stopped him and thanked him for his love and help. He said fate had brought all of this. Lucie collapsed again. Sydney Carton picked her up and helped carry her to a coach. 

They returned home. Carton carried Lucie upstairs to her room. He told Miss Pross not to wake her. Little Lucie hugged Carton and asked him to save her parents. Carton kissed Lucie’s forehead and whispered, “A life you love.” He then spoke privately to Doctor Manette and Mr. Lorry. He urged the doctor to try again to save Darnay. The doctor agreed.     

Carton warned the doctor that time was short. He asked when he would know the outcome. Doctor Manette promised to return after dark. Carton said he would come to Mr. Lorry’s place at nine to hear the result. After Carton left, Mr. Lorry whispered that there was no real hope. Carton agreed. Still, he said this effort might comfort Lucie later.

That night, Carton walked the streets. He decided to visit the wine-shop in Saint Antoine. He found the Defarges there, along with Jacques Three and The Vengeance. Carton ordered wine and listened quietly. Madame Defarge looked closely at him. She said he looked like Evrémonde.

Carton read a newspaper and listened to their talk. The group spoke of killing many more people. Defarge seemed troubled. He mentioned Doctor Manette’s pain. Madame Defarge did not care. She said the Evrémondes had destroyed her family. She revealed that her sister had been the young woman in the Bastille story. Her sister’s husband, father, and brother had all died.

She vowed revenge against all Evrémondes. She wanted complete extermination. Even Lucie and her child were not safe. Madame Defarge threatened to accuse them all. Carton listened and pretended not to understand. When he left, she showed him the way. He thought of attacking her but walked away.

Carton went to Tellson’s Bank at nine. Mr. Lorry was worried. Doctor Manette had not returned. Hours passed. At midnight, Manette arrived, broken and dazed. He had lost his mind again. He spoke of his shoemaker’s bench. He believed he must finish making shoes.

Carton and Mr. Lorry were shocked. They sat Manette by the fire and comforted him. Then Carton found two papers. One was his own permit to leave Paris. The other was a travel pass for Manette, Lucie, and the child. Carton explained that Madame Defarge planned to accuse Lucie.

Carton said there was still a chance to escape. He gave careful instructions to Mr. Lorry. They must prepare a carriage to leave at 2 p.m. the next day. Lucie must be told to leave for her child and father’s safety. The escape plan had to follow Carton’s orders exactly. 

Mr. Lorry agreed to everything. Carton promised to return. Then he helped dress Doctor Manette and led him outside. He looked up at Lucie’s window. He blessed her silently and said goodbye. 

Chapters XIII & XIV – “Fifty-Two” and “The Knitting Done”: Sydney Carton visited the prison quietly. He went to Charles Darnay’s cell. He brought a letter and a plan. With Barsad’s help, he entered the cell alone. He talked to Darnay, then gave him a drink. The drink made Darnay faint slowly. Carton quickly changed clothes with him. He made himself look like Darnay. The guards returned and carried out Darnay, thinking it was Carton.

Carton stayed behind, ready to die. He waited calmly in the cell. Meanwhile, Lucie and her family prepared to leave. They stayed hidden and nervous. Mr. Lorry had everything ready. They waited for Carton to come. If he didn’t arrive in time, they could not escape.

In another part of Paris, Madame Defarge made plans. She wanted Lucie and her child arrested. She believed they had helped a prisoner. She also wanted to punish the Manette family. She went to Lucie’s apartment with The Vengeance. But Lucie and the others had already left. 

Only Miss Pross was there. She stood in Madame Defarge’s way. Madame Defarge was angry. She pulled out a pistol. The two women struggled fiercely. The pistol fired during the fight. Madame Defarge was killed. Miss Pross was safe, but the loud noise shocked her badly. From that moment, she became deaf.

Back at the prison, Carton waited calmly. He had taken Darnay’s place. He was ready to die for Lucie’s happiness. A young seamstress sat near him. She was also going to die. She was scared and lonely. Carton spoke kindly to her. He held her hand. His calmness gave her peace. 

Carton’s thoughts were peaceful and strong. He thought about the future. He believed Lucie would have a happy life. He saw a child with his name growing up in peace. As he faced death, Carton felt no fear. He believed he was doing a brave and good thing.

Chapter XV – The Footsteps Die Out Forever: The next morning, the city was full of noise. Fifty-two people were going to die. The prisoners were taken in six carts. They carry people to die by the guillotine. The people in the streets laughed and watched. They pointed and shouted. People barely stop their daily work to look. Some point out past victims to their guests.

In the carts, Carton and the seamstress were in the third cart. Prisoners wait quietly. Some are calm, others are full of fear. One mad man sings and tries to dance. Most look straight ahead or down. No one asks the crowd for pity.

Many in the crowd ask the guards one question. They want to know who is Evrémonde. Guards point to a man in the third cart. He talks gently to a young girl. He holds her hand. He doesn’t look at the crowd. His head is down. His arms are tied. The man is Sydney Carton. He has taken Darnay’s place. The girl beside him is a seamstress. She is afraid but finds comfort in Carton’s voice. They are calm together. They speak quietly as if alone. 

The spy Barsad watches the carts pass. He looks for Carton. At first, he doesn’t see him. Then he spots him in the third cart. A man shouts, “Down with Evrémonde!” But the spy tells him to stay quiet. “He will die soon,” the spy says. The crowd follows the carts to the guillotine. Women sit in chairs and knit. One is The Vengeance. She looks for Madame Defarge. But Madame Defarge is gone. She never missed a killing before. Now, her empty chair waits. 

The guillotine begins its work. The first cart unloads. A head falls—One. The next cart unloads. Another head—Two. Then Carton steps down. The seamstress is taken with him. She still holds his hand. They stand beside the guillotine. The girl thanks him. “You helped me stay brave,” she says. “You were sent to me from Heaven,” Carton tells her to keep looking at him. He promises it will be quick.

The girl tells him about her cousin. She hopes the Republic helps poor people. Maybe her cousin will live a long life. She wonders if the wait for reunion in Heaven will feel long. Carton says, “There is no time there. No pain.” The girl asks, “Is it time now?” He says yes. They kiss goodbye. She is taken first—Twenty-Two. Carton is next—Twenty-Three.

As he died, people said he looked peaceful. Some call him noble and holy.

Carton does not speak. But if he had, these might be his thoughts: He sees a better future. He sees justice come to those who now kill. He sees a new, free France rise from the ruins. He sees Lucie, happy with her child. He sees Mr. Lorry giving them all he has. He sees his name passed down with honor. He sees Lucie and her husband grow old together. He sees their son grow into a great man. Carton imagines a man telling his child the story of the man who died with love and bravery. Carton knows one final truth:

“It is a far, far better thing that I do, than I have ever done;

It is a far, far better rest that I go to than I have ever known.”