Sampson goes to visit Quilp at the wharf. He finds Quilp gleefully reciting the headlines about Kit’s arrest and trial. Sampson enters, telling Quilp that the single gentleman has not yet returned to their lodgings. He has been staying at the Garlands ever since Kit’s arrest. Sampson and Quilp drink together, briefly discussing Sampson’s belief that Quilp and Sally would have made a good match. Quilp admits he has always liked Sally, but she has rejected him many times. Eventually, Sampson becomes so drunk he momentarily passes out and wakes up on the floor. Quilp helps him outside and guides him to the path that leads home.

Kit’s trial begins eight days later. The grand jury finds sufficient evidence to charge him with felony theft; Kit pleads not guilty. The prosecuting lawyer calls Sampson to the witness stand, then Sally, and then Dick. The Brasses speak strongly against Kit, while Dick’s testimony about treating Kit’s little brother to lunch is one that neither lawyer seems sure of what to do with. The jury finds Kit guilty.

In jail, Kit feels confident that the truth will come out, and he tells his mother not to worry about him too much. Dick helps Kit’s mom get home; he stays with her until her emotional state settles down.