An unnamed narrator tells how a Parisian detective, Auguste Dupin, solves a case of a “purloined letter.” The letter belonged to the Queen, and the man who took it had switched it with a plain letter, and was using the information contained in the stolen letter to blackmail the Queen. The police Prefect wants Dupin to figure out how to catch the man, and Dupin reasons his way through the case, eventually nabbing the thief by using his own technique against him—switching letters back.
Albert visits Monsieur Danglers to ask about the accusations against his father.
Christmas Eve and the dinner party to make peace between Neville and Edwin is at hand. Edwin has a strange and troubling conversation with a woman on the streets of Cloisterham. A great storm descends upon the town.
In the course of his duties, Jerry encounters a true gentleman.
The Sedley state is auctioned off.
David decides he will use the new situation to his advantage. Dr. Strong agrees to hire David as his secretary. David becomes suspicious of Jack Malden's intentions towards Annie. Mr. Micawber tells David and Tommy of his plans in Canterbury.
Mr. Wickfield and Agnes visit the Strongs. David's encounter with Uriah leaves him feeling morally inferior.
A grand debate at the general assembly of the HOUYHNHNMS, and how it was determined. The learning of the HOUYHNHNMS. Their buildings. Their manner of burials. The defectiveness of their language.
Queen Ann was the ruler of Oogaboo, the smallest and poorest in the land of Oz (except for the peaceful Emerald City ruled by the young Ozma). Ann decides to build an army and overtake Ozma’s throne.
Albert and Mercedes make plans for their future.
A large group of artists, englishmen, tourists (as well as Kenyon, Hilda, Donatello, and Miriam) gather together for an exhibit.
Pip befriends Wemmick and gets a chance to see Jaggers in action.
The husband of Lady Sannox develops a sinister plot when he finds out that his wife is seeing another man.
Jehan Frollo discovers a strange scene in his brother's cell. Jehan's request for money is interrupted by the arrival of Maitre Jacques.
While in college, Holmes visits a friend and strikes a tender spot when talking to his friend’s father. This leads him into his investigation of a mystery involving blackmail.
After a period of calm seas aboard the Tankadere, Phileas and Aouda arrive in Shanghai. Detective Fix is greatly affected by Phileas' kindness, evening offering to pay for his passage.
Captain Larsen's, having become more possesive of Maud, excludes the crew from his table. Interference by the captain's brother, Death, results in monetary losses for the Ghost.
Lebeziatnikov and Raskolnikov discuss Katerina's health as Sonia goes to check on her. Sonia finds a barely coherent Katerina overcome by her physical illness. Svidrigailov offers to take care of all funeral arrangements.
Mrs. Bute Crawley attempts to protect Miss Crawley.
A couple makes personal sacrifices to give each other gifts for Christmas.
Fagin and Monks discuss Oliver's future.
Ned Land, Conseil, and Aronnax attempt to size up the crew of the Nautilus. An unfortunate incident greatly affects Ned Land's attitude toward Captain Nemo.
Du Bois discusses the significance of the city of Atlanta.
Ahab requests a new leg, feeling that his current one is not sturdy enough.