Philip desperately needs a job, and from a connection via Thorpe Athelny, he gets a job at a clothing shop. It will be Philip’s job to direct customers to different departments; he is humbled but grateful for the opportunity to earn anything.

Philip begins his new job. It includes room and food, although both are of poor quality. Philip’s job is “monotonous and very tiring” (511).

Philip makes some attempt to socialize with the other employees from the shop, although he has little in common with them and finds his new life to be degrading.