The novel itself begins with a series of letters from the explorer Robert Walton to his sister, Margaret Saville. The stranger, who the reader soon learns is Victor Frankenstein, begins his narration. Frankenstein then describes how his childhood companion, Elizabeth Lavenza, entered his family.
While the party continues, Miriam takes a moonlit walk and is confronted by someone from her past. Noticing her terror, Donatello goes to her and threatens violence on her intruder.
Aunt Polly catches Tom misbehaving, but finds it hard to punish her late sisters child. Tom's fight with a stranger in town causes him to temporarily lose his freedom. The reader is introduced to Tom's half brother Sid.
The author recalls a variety of incidents that occurred during his time at West Point, some being more pleasant than others.
Sydney Carton imagines a future far brighter than the one he is now witnessing.
The newlyweds return to New York where Newland avoids a chance encounter with Ellen.
Jurgis jumps aboard a freight train in a state of shock. In the country Jurgis becomes a vagabond, stealing just to survive. After witnessing a mother and child, Jurgis breaks down.
Captain Pratt sets off on an adventure circling the globe.
Fagin watches Nancy closely, hoping to blackmail her with any information he discovers.
With some advising from Steerforth, David decides on a future profession. David witnesses a strange encounter between Miss Betsey and a stranger. David begins to establish himself at the Doctors' Commons.
Many questions are answered in the history told by Moodie.
Dantes, in a disguise of an Englishman, makes inquires about Morrel and Son, in order to help Morrel through his bankruptcy.
A man comes to Mycroft Holmes and tells him of his strange encounter. Sherlock Holmes then becomes involved because of his brother’s laziness.
The Yankee is comfortable in his new position, but has no title. He gains a title from the people, but is angered at the slavery and rule of the king. He likes the king, but does not respect him.
Mole, accompanied by his new friends, returns to his home. Mole sends for groceries in order to feed his guests.
While working in the salt mines, Booker hears of an opportunity to pursue an education.
Lorry is dispatched to France. Darnay departs for Paris in an attempt to save the Marquis' groundskeeper.
Walter pays a largely unsuccessful visit to the lawyer. He is followed, but manages to avoid further detection. A letter arrives for Marian. Walter plans to go to Blackwater.
After the conclusion of the dinner party, George makes a confession to Myra.
Newland shows is support for his fiance's family.
The narrator describes his favorite road at New Smyrna. He mentions the river that runs along the road and the birds he has seen there.
When Gaudfrey Staunton disappears, Cyril Overton asks Holmes to investigate. Dr. Armstrong is suspected.
Ali, one of the slaves of the Count of Monte Cristo, helps to save Madame Villefort and her son Edward.
Kay's grandmother tells the children about the Snow Queen. Kay's behavior is greatly affected by pieces of the troll-mirror. Kay encounters the Snow Queen.
Gringoire watches Esmeralda, as she performs for the crowd. A mysterious stranger accuses Esmeralda of sorcery. Quasimodo's participation in the festivities comes to an end.