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Whether I shall turn out to be the hero of my own life,

or whether that station will be held by anybody else,

this story must show.

To begin my life at the very beginning,

I was a posthumous child.

My father left this world three months before I entered it.

I was born in the small village of Blunderstone

on Friday at 12 o'clock at night,

though not before my mother received a somewhat less expected visitor.

Peggotty!

Can I help you, ma'am?

- Mrs David Copperfield, I think. - Who wants her, I'd like to know?

- Miss Betsey Trotwood, you've heard of her I dearsay. - My poor husband's aunt.

Now you see her.

You're nothing but a baby yourself.

- My nephew spoiled you, I suppose. - Mr Copperfield was very good...

Oh, no, don't do that, don't do that! Come, come!

I opposed to my nephew's marriage. I told him you were too young. He ignored me.

Fancied himself in love, I suppose.

- My husband is dead. If you dare... - You may leave us.

Now, when do you expect?

Soon. I feel so frightened. I'm sure I shall die.

Die? Certainly not!

Have some tea. Where's that girl of yours?

- What does she call herself? - Peggotty.

Peggotty? Do you mean a human being has gone into a Christian church

and had herself named Peggotty?

It's her surname - her Christian name is Clara,

the same as mine.

Your mistress needs some tea.

- She's feeling a little unwell. - She's having the baby!

Shall I send for the doctor, ma'am?

Now, from the moment of the birth of your girl...

- Perhaps boy. - It'll be a girl! Don't contradict.

I shall be her godmother. You shall call her Betsey Trotwood Copperfield.

And this Betsy Trotwood must make no mistakes in life.

No worthless man will trifle with her affections!

Oh, stop that, now.

You'll make yourself ill.

That will do neither you nor my goddaughter any good at all.

Well.

- We are progressing, ma'am. Slowly. - Bah!

My congratulations. All is now over and the baby is safely delivered.

- Good. How is she? - Mrs Copperfield is comfortable.

- Yes, but how is she? - Who?

The baby, for heaven's sake!

Oh, she is a he, Miss Trotwood.

- What? - The baby is a boy.

A boy?

A boy!

A boy! Ahhh!

A boy!

My great aunt's experience of men had not been a happy one.

The arrival of one more was the final straw.

She vanished like a discontented fairy, seemingly never to return.

My early childhood was blissfully happy.

The days and years slipped by in a warm glow of contentment.

I grew up secure in the certainty that my beautiful mother loved only me,

while Peggotty's loyalty and devotion were as constant as the tides.

"My next work was to view the country and seek a proper place

"for my habit... habita..."

- Habitation, Davy. - Habitation.

"Where I was I yet knew not..."

- Davy should be in bed now, ma'am. - Oh, please, just a little longer!

Oh, go on! Only five minutes, mind!

Put a bulb in there.

That's it. No, not upside down! That way!

But a chill wind was rising.

The golden summer of my innocence was about to be blown away.

Davy, say good morning to Mr Murdstone.

- Davy! - He doesn't wish to share you.

I understand his devotion.

Come, let us shake hands and be the best friends in the world.

I like his spirit.

Until tomorrow, Mrs Copperfield.

Davy, I'm disappointed in you. Where are your manners?

A stranger makes an agreeable change, I suppose, ma'am.

A very agreeable change indeed.

I was only thinking of Davy.

Am I to be told that I am wanting in affection for my precious boy?

- Nobody ever said such a thing! - Yes, you did!

Am I a cruel, selfish, bad mama?

I don't love you at all, do I, Davy?

Of course your mama loves you, Master Davy. I only said...

Master Davy, how should you like to go along with me

and spend a fortnight at my brother's at Yarmouth?

- Wouldn't that be a treat? - Won't Mama mind?

She can't live by herself.

Why, I'll bet a guinea she'll let us go!

Oh, you'll love the seaside, Davy!

There's the beach and the boats, all sorts of things!

Let's ask her!

It touches me deeply to think how eager I was to leave my happy home

and to remember how little I suspected what I was leaving behind for ever.

Another pie, Mr Barkis?

Whoa!

- Did she make them pastries? - She does all our cooking.

Do she, though?

No sweethearts, I believe.

Oh, no, she never had a sweetheart.

- Here's my Ham! - Ah-ha! Come on, then, six-foot!

Yon's our house, Master Davy.

- You don't live in a boat, Ham? - In a manner of speaking.

You're most welcome, Master Copperfield.

You'll find us rough, sir, but you'll find us ready.

There you go.

Mr Peggotty, did you call your son Ham 'cause you live in a kind of ark

like Noah and his son did?

I couldn't rightly say how he came by it. His father gave him that name.

I thought you were his father.

- My brother Joe was his father. - Is your brother dead, Mr Peggotty?

Drowndead.

But Little Emily, she is your daughter, isn't she?

My brother-in-law Tom was her father.

- Dead, Mr Peggotty? - Drowndead.

- Haven't you any children? - Not him. He ain't married.

Why, isn't Mrs Gummidge your wife?

Mrs Gummidge lost her husband a few year back.

Drowndead, Mr Peggotty?

- She gets low when she thinks on it. - And she do! Pretty often!

I'm a lone, lorn creature!

I'd better go into the workhouse and die and be a riddance!

- Cheer up! - My troubles make me contrary.

I wish I could be hardened to 'em, but I ain't.

- I make the house uncomfortable! - I'm certain you don't.

- I do! - She's thinkin' of the old 'un.

Don't you worry, Davy.

I never knowed anyone who so enjoyed being miserable.

My father is dead, too.

I know.

Do you mind?

I never met him.

- Mr Peggotty must be a good man. - Better than good.

If I was a lady, I'd give him a waistcoat with diamond buttons,

a large gold watch and a bagful of money.

Emily!

Emily, take care!

I am only frightened when the wind blows.

Then I lie awake

thinking I hear Uncle Dan and Ham out at sea crying for help.

That's why I want to be a lady. I could keep them safe on land.

Her words echo to me down the years.

They haunt me still.

The days sped by

as if time had not grown up yet, but were a child, too,

and always at play.

I was delighted with my new friends.

Dan Peggotty treated me as one of his family

and I grew to love his open-hearted kindness.

Ham was like the best and most heroic of older brothers.

And of course, in my childish way, I was completely in love with Little Emily.

When the day came to leave Yarmouth,

I realised that for two weeks

I had scarcely thought of my home at all.

Let's always be friends, Emily.

I'd like that, but you'll be a gentleman one day.

- Come, Davy, Mr Barkis is waiting. - I'll write as often as I can.

No sweethearts, you say?

When you get home, tell her Barkis is willin'.

She'll be awake in a moment. You could tell her yourself.

Barkis is willin'.

That's the message - Barkis is willin'.

- Master Davy, wait! - What's the matter?

I should've told you before...

Mama - where is she? Not dead, too?

She's not dead, Peggotty?!

No, Master Davy!

Davy!

I have a surprise for you! Can you guess what it is?

You have a new father.

Well, Davy boy, how do you do?

You've prejudiced him against me! What do you mean by it?

Lord forgive you, Mrs Copperfield!

Davy, you naughty boy! It's enough to distract me!

Clara, my love, have you forgotten? Firmness, my dear.

What name did you just call your mistress?

Mrs Copperfield... same as always... sir.

She has a new name now. Murdstone.

Oblige me by remembering that in future.

You may go.

Go you below, my love.

David and I will be down together presently.

David... if I have an obstinate dog or horse to deal with,

what do you think I do?

I beat him.

I make him wince and smart.

I say to myself, "I'll conquer that fellow".

And even if it costs him every drop of blood he has... I'll do it.

Do we understand each other?

Good.

Now, wash your face... and come downstairs directly.

Miss Jane Murdstone, sir.

- My dear Jane. - Edward.

Well...

- How are you, sister-in-law? - Quite well, thank you.

- Is this your boy? - It is.

Generally speaking, I don't like boys.

You're too pretty and thoughtless

to have duties that can be undertaken by me.

Be so good as to give me your keys. I will attend to the housekeeping.

- I could have copies made... - No. Kindly give me the keys!

My dear, I returned from my walk to find the parlour's been rearranged.

My sister considered there to be too much clutter. I agreed.

Perhaps, but I do think I might've been consulted before any change.

It is very hard in my own house...

- My own house, Clara? - Our own house.

It is hard that I may not have a word to say.

- I'm sure I managed very well before. - Edward, I go tomorrow!

Jane Murdstone, be silent.

I'm sure I do not want anybody to go. I'm obliged to anyone who assists me.

- Only... - Let there be an end to this!

- I go tomorrow... - Will you be silent?!

Clara, I took satisfaction when we married

in the thought of infusing your character with firmness.

Jane is good enough to help and yet she is met with base ingratitude.

Don't accuse me of that.

I have many faults, but no one has accused me of ingratitude.

I warn you, Clara,

this shabby response chills and alters my feeling for you.

Don't be cold, Edward. I can't live with coldness.

I have so many defects, I know.

It's good of you with your strength of mind to correct them for me.

Jane, I make no objection to anything.

Let us hear no more of it.

David... go to bed.

I observe you have an attachment to low company.

Do not associate with servants!

Mistress Peggotty will not help you in the respects you need improvement.

- Have you learned your lessons? - I think so, Mama.

I fear the Greeks even when they bring gifts.

Timeo... danaos...

...et...

...et...

- Well. - Timeo...

...danaos... - Timeo danaos et dona ferentis - as everyone knows!

- Oh, Davy... - Don't say "Oh, Davy"! Be firm!

He either knows his lessons or not!

- He does not know them! - Then send him away until he does!

I tell you, Clara, I've often been flogged myself.

- It did me no harm. - To be sure. Of course not.

Now, David, you must be more careful today.

Suppose I go into a cheesemonger's shop and buy 5,000 cheeses

at fourpence-halfpenny each, how much do I spend?

- You know arithmetic, don't you? - Yes, sir.

See how your laziness grieves your mother?

No! No! O-Only I think I'm not quite well, my dear Edward.

Come, David... your answer, please.

How much do I spend?

You will defy me no more, sir!

Please don't hurt me! I've tried to learn!

- Please don't hurt me! - Keep still!

Quiet!

If you please, Miss Murdstone, how long am I to be kept here?

I was left alone for seven days and nights.

I believe I might've gone mad but for the books my father had left me.

In their pages, I was freed from the prison.

In my solitude, I grew to love their characters

as I loved those nearest and dearest to me.

Davy?

- Davy? - Peggotty?

Oh, Peggotty!

Hush, dear. Be as quiet as a mouse or the cats'll hear us.

- What is to become of me, Peggotty? - School

- Near London. - When?

Tomorrow.

Listen to me, my darlin' boy.

Don't lose heart... and never forget how much your Peggotty loves you!

Is Mama very angry with me, Peggotty?

No... no, not very.

- Shan't I see her? - Tomorrow.

I'll take care of your mama, Davy dear, I promise.

I won't leave her, not ever.

As long as Clara Peggotty draws breath,

you and your mama will always have a friend!

Don't cry, Peggotty!

I ain't cryin'!

Your mama gave me these for you, Davy.

Goodbye... my darling boy.

Goodbye.

- Please, ma'am, it's too cramped! - Nonsense!

If you didn't fidget so much, there'd be plenty of room!

- Fowl, madam? - Mmmm!

Sir, where are the other boys?

There ain't no others for a month. You're sent early as a punishment.

This is the gentleman whose teeth are to be filed?

This is the boy!

I have the 'appiness of knowing Mr Murdstone.

He knows me and I know him.

- Do you know me, sir?! - Not yet, sir.

- Not yet, but you will soon! - You will soon!

I'll tell you what I am. I'm a Tartar.

- What am I? - A Tartar.

When I say I'll have a thing done, I will have it done!

He will have it done!

What do you think of this, young snapper?

- Is there a dog, sir? - A dog?

- It's not a dog... it's a boy! - A boy!

Show this badge conspicuous or you'll catch it, all right!

I don't take kindly to biters!

Now you've begun to know me, my young friend, you may go!

Leave him alone!

- How did this come about? - I bit my stepfather.

I think it's a damn shame.

- Now, boys, this is a new term. - A new term!

Come fresh up to your studying, I advise you,

for I come fresh up to the punishment!

This boy prefers biting to studying. What shall I do with him?

No answer? Then I'll show you. Put your hands out, Copperfield.

Hands out!

So you like biting, do you?

How do you like this for a tooth?

Is it a sharp tooth?

Does it bite deep?

Does it cut?

Stings a bit, don't it?

- A bit. - You'll survive.

- I think so, sir. - You're fresh as a daisy!

My name is Steerforth. There's no need to "sir" me.

- What money have you got? - About seven shillings.

Give it to me to take care of. At least, you can if you like.

- Want to spend anything now? - No.

What about a feast - currant wine, cakes?

If you think a feast the best idea, Steerforth.

I thought I had never met anyone so noble and generous.

I was bound to him ever after for the kindness he showed me.

Copperfield!

Nolumus, non vultis, nolunt.

Nolo, non vis, not vult.

Nolumus, non voltis, nolunt.

- Future imperative. - Future imperative!

Let them be about to be unwilling.

- Noluntote... - Visitors for Copperfield!

- Mr Peggotty! Ham! - Davy boy!

As we were sailing up to Gravesend, Peggotty said to inquire for Davy.

She said your mama sends you her deepest love.

Those were the exact words.

- Is Mama well. - Pretty well, I believe.

If Mama is still angry, tell her I'm sorry I hurt her.

She ain't angry - ain't nothing to forgive.

Steerforth! Here's Mr Peggotty and Ham from Yarmouth!

- I am glad to see you. How are you? - Tell them Steerforth is very kind.

I'll tell 'em. It'll do 'em the world of good to hear it.

Goodbye.

The rest of that long tedious half-year

is a jumble in my recollection

of the daily strife and struggle of our lives.

I had nightmares that the Murdstones would keep me here for the holidays,

but finally I learned I was sent for

and it was time, at last, to go home.

Any boy still here in one minute will be thrashed!

Thrashed!

I gave your message to Peggotty, Mr Barkis.

- Nothing came of it? No answer? - Was one expected?

When a man says he's willin', he's waitin' for an answer.

Have you told her so, Mr Barkis?

W-Would you like me to do it?

What's the name? Christian name, I mean.

Clara. Her Christian name is Clara.

You tell Clara Peggotty

Barkis is waitin' for his answer.

# Angels keep their watch on you, my darling... #

Davy... my own boy!

He is your brother.

Betsey Trotwood wouldn't be pleased to see another boy.

What put that peculiar person in your head?

- Do you want a second visit? - Lord forbid!

Peggotty, Barkis asked me to tell you that he was waiting for your answer.

- What is it? - Oh, drat the man!

He wants to marry me.

- It'd be a good match, wouldn't it? - Don't ask me!

He's never said a word to me about it.

There you go.

Stay with me, Peggotty. It will not be for long perhaps.

Me? Leave you?

Not for all the world... though it would make someone happy.

How unkind you are. Don't be so hard on Miss Murdstone.

You know she only does things out of the best intentions.

Don't let us fall out, Peggotty. I couldn't bear it.

You're my true friend if I have any in this world.

Do you see? He's got it! He's got the baby!

Davy, go on.

I beg your pardon, sir.

I am sorry for what I did. I hope you will forgive me.

I forgive you, David.

Whether there is forgiveness in a higher place,

I cannot say.

The holidays lagged away. What a blank space I seemed.

Sit up straight!

Which everybody overlooked, yet was in everybody's way.

Elbows.

The manners of this boy!

Davy!

Davy... wait! Davy!

Let me look at you once more.

Go on now. After all, we shall see each other before long, shan't we?

So I lost her.

I saw her afterwards in my sleep - a silent presence near my bed

looking at me with the same intent face,

holding up her baby in her arms.

Copperfield is to report to Mr Creakle!

Copperfield...

...I have something to tell you.

You are too young to know

how the world changes every day...

...and how the people in it pass away.

But we all have to learn it eventually.

When you left home to come here, was everyone well.

Was your mother well.

Was she? Was she well.

Yes, sir.

Because it grieves me to tell you

that I hear that your mother is very ill

She's very dangerously ill

In fact, she's dead.

She was never well...

...for a long time.

She sank a little every day

until she knew she was dying and her little boy, too.

On the last night, she... she kissed me and said...

"Let them lay my baby in my arms and bury us together."

The sun was rising when...

...when she turned and said...

"Peggotty... put me nearer to you for your face seems far off."

And I put my arm under her head to hold her up...

...and she smiled then...

...closed her eyes...

...and never woke again.

You must be measured for mourning clothes.

- You brought your shirts home? - Yes, all my clothes.

Your services are no longer required, Mistress Peggotty.

You may take a month's warning.

Don't drag your feet, David. You will walk with me.

Family only.

You should be dead, not them!

Why didn't He take you instead?

With Peggotty's imminent departure,

there would be no one in the house to love me any more,

but for her sake, when the day came, I hid my loneliness and fear.

What should you think if I were to get married?

- To Mr Barkis? - Yes.

You would have the horse and cart to bring you over to see me.

- You could come for nothing. - The sense!

- What name did I write in the cart? - Clara Peggotty.

What name would it be if I should write it next time?

Clara Peggotty again?

Clara Peggotty Barkis!

David.

This is a world for action, not for moping in.

- As YOU do. - Leave it to me.

It is a world for action, especially for a young boy of your disposition

which requires correcting.

Stubbornness won't do! Stubbornness must be crushed!

Education is costly and even if I could afford it,

I feel it would not be advantageous to you to be kept in school

Before you is a fight with the world. The sooner you begin it the better.

You are going to London, David, to begin life on your own account.

It's six shillings a week, rising to seven if you prove yourself useful

- Mick will show you the ropes. - Quite the young gentleman!

We'll have none of your airs

or I'll throw you in the cellar with the rats!

You'll have to be quicker than that, little gent!

Copperfield?

Am I addressing the bearer of the name Copperfield?

Yes, sir.

Wilkins Micawber...

...at your service.

I hope I see you well

Your esteemed stepfather, a man of business like myself,

has charged me with providing you with suitable quarters.

- You mean I am to say with you? - In short, yes.

As your peregrinations in this city have not as yet been extensive

and that you might have difficulty penetrating

the mysteries of the modern Babylon in the direction of the City Road,

I place myself at your disposal

In short, in case you get lost,

I've come to take you home.

Would you care to join me?

Come on, oppen up, Micawber!

Pay me now!

I'll keep coming back until you pay me, you swindling old...

...the law on yer!

You pompous old fool!

I'll be back!

Here's young Copperfield, my dear, to share our familial habitation.

You are very welcome,

though when I lived at home with my late mama and papa,

I never thought I should have to take in a lodger.

Such considerations must give way in times of pecuniary embarrassment

at least until something turns up.

My little princess!

Mr Micawber's difficulties are almost overwhelming.

Whether it is possible to bring him through them, I don't know,

but I never shall desert him!

Open up, Micawber!

... let me do it!

I can stand it no longer!

My creditors will not relent! It is inhuman!

Let me do the fatal deed

and forget the wretch once known as Wilkins Micawber ever lived!

He will do away with himself - the father of my children!

- I think it is only a scratch. - Has he gone?

- Not dead! - My love!

I'll be back!

He's gone!

Copperfield, my brush with mortality makes me hungry.

A bag of muffins, if you please,

and, pray, join us for a modest repast.

What shall I do with these, Mr Micawber?

Negotiate, my dear Copperfield, negotiate.

- Not much call for this. - I am to ask five shillings.

Five shilling?! I'd be robbing my family if I offered two!

It ain't plate, is it?

- The best silver. - Three-and-six.

I can't go lower than four.

We'll trade! Are you a sporting man?

- Musical? - Stand firm, Copperfield.

I'll put myself in the poorhouse if I go on like this!

All right, four shilling, then.

Ahh!

My dear young Copperfield, until something turns up,

which I am, I may say, hourly expecting,

I have nothing to bestow on you but advice.

My advice is never do tomorrow what you can do today.

Procrastination is the thief of time! Collar him!

I do not deny, at times, Micawber has kept me in the dark

as to his liabilities,

but I never will desert him - no use asking!

...I'm not, Mrs Micawber.

He is the father of my children, the husband of my affections!

- I never will desert Mr Micawber! - What's the matter?

- I never will desert you! - My life, I'm aware of it.

Be calm, Emma, be calm.

I propose a toast... to our new guest.

You have shown a precocious grasp of commerce

and I am convinced, under my tuition of course,

that you will, in short, go far.

To Copperfield - not just a lodger... a friend!

As the long, tedious days in the factory passed,

no words could express the agony of my soul

My father's books had inspired me with the ambition to write,

but now I felt that all my dreams had been crushed.

The Micawbers'friendship was my only respite,

but even that was brought to an end by their misfortunes.

Something will turn up...

...I'm quite certain of it.

- Where are you taking him? - King's Bench prison.

How can he pay his debts when he's locked up and can't earn anything?

The sun is setting. I shan't live to see another dawn. Think kindly of me.

I never will desert you! We will not be overcome!

- Don't worry, I'll look after them. - God bless you!

I resolved to visit Mr Micawber as soon as I could.

My heart raced as I approached the gate of the infamous King's Bench.

I think I expected to find Mr Micawber clapped in irons

in some dreadful dungeon.

The reality of a debtor's prison was rather different,

though no less terrible in its own way.

Let the fate of the miserable wretch you see before you be a warning.

Annual income - �20.

Annual expenditure - �19.19.06.

Result - happiness.

Annual income - �20.

Annual expenditure - �20.00.06.

Result - misery!

The blossom is blighted, the leaf is withered!

You are, in short, flattened!

Months passed with no sign of a release for Mr Micawber.

I went to the prison every day and did what I could for him,

but I had barely enough to feed myself.

I thought you might be hungry.

You have... no close family of your own, Copperfield?

- Beyond Mr Murdstone, I mean. - He hates me.

I have no one else.

An aunt in Dover hasn't seen me since I was a baby

and I don't think she'd want to meet me now.

My advice is seek her out.

She may be overjoyed to reacquaint herself with you.

Wilkins! Our debts are settled!

You are a free man again!

The Lord Chancellor's acknowledged a miscarriage of justice!

I wrote to him personally.

My family's remembered their obligations.

Not, in short, before time.

They think Micawber should exert his talents in our home town of Plymouth.

I shall never think of our period of difficulty without remembering you.

God bless you.

I never will forget you.

Farewell, my young friend. Farewell

Remember, Copperfield. Annual income - �20.

Annual expenditure - �20.00.06.

Result - misery!

With my friends gone, I understood that my fate lay in my own hands.

A great resolution began to form within me.

I had decided to run away.

I'd go into the country to find the only relation I had in the world -

my aunt, Betsey Trotwood.

- 15 shilling. - I need a sovereign for the coach.

I'll throw in these valuable items out of the kindness of my heart.

They must be worth another 10 shillings at least.

Five.

Done.

Excuse me, sir.

Will you take this to the coach station for sixpence?

- Give me my money! - Let go!

Or, by God, I'll rip your body open!

- Stop, thief! - Get out of the way!

Stop! Stop!

With nothing left in the world,

I now had no choice but to continue my journey to Dover on foot.

Pardon me, sir, but do you know where Miss Betsey Trotwood lives?

Go away! Go along!

No boys here!

Go on!

If you please, ma'am.

If you please, Aunt, I am your nephew David Copperfield.

I have been very unhappy since Mama died, and my stepfather hates me!

He made me work in a horrible place!

Janet! Oh, mercy!

Oh, mercy on us, Janet!

Mr Dick, you've heard me mention David Copperfield.

David Copperfield... Oh, yes, certainly. David!

Well, this is his boy, his son.

He'd be like his father if he were not so like his mother, too!

- He's run away! - Run away?

- His sister never would have! - I've no sister.

You came in her place or this would not have happened!

- You think not? - Of course not!

She would have lived with me! We would have been devoted!

Don't stand there wool-gathering! Nobody has the brains you have!

Here you see young David.

The question I put to you is what shall I do with him?

- I want some very sound advice. - What shall you do with him?

Why, um, if I were you, I should... I should...

If I were you, I should wash him!

- Mr Dick sets us right! - I'll heat the water.

J-Janet! Donkeys! Donkeys!

Get off this green at once! Turn round!

No! Don't!

I will have no donkeys trespassing on my green!

Please, ma'am...

Ugh! Burn them!

Whatever possessed your poor mother to marry again, I cannot conceive.

- Perhaps she fell in love. - Why did she do that?!

- Look at what love did for me! - Are you married, Aunt?

Was.

My husband treated me falsely... ungratefully and cruelly.

That's what men do - as far as I can see.

Mine nearly broke my fortune and closed my heart for good.

He died in India, you know. Trampled by an elephant!

Mr Dick...

...would you please go and find this boy some clothes?

Wash your face.

Ughh! Where have you been, boy? Ughhh!

Now, we must consider what is to be done with you, David Copperfield.

- I'll have to write to your stepfather. - Will I be given up to him?

I don't know anything about that. Perhaps. We shall see.

You have committed a very reckless act.

Running away is a serious business, you know.

What did you mean by coming... here?

Poor little fellow.

Hah! Phoebus! How does the world go?

Come, sit. Here. How did you sleep? Were you comfortable?

Don't mention this to anyone,

but... it's a mad world - as mad as Bedlam!

What are you writing, Mr Dick?

It's my life story, my memorial!

The problem is King Charles I keeps on trying to make his way in there!

It's very unreasonable!

Do you recollect the date he had his head cut off?

I believe it was 1649, sir.

So the books say, but I don't see how it can.

If it was so long ago, how could the people

have put some of the trouble out of his head

after it had been taken off and into... mine?

How long has Mr Dick been writing his memorial?

Ten years or more, but that don't signify. It keeps him employed.

Well... what do you think of him?

Your sister Betsey Trotwood wouldn't hesitate. Be as like her as you can.

Is he... Is he at all out of his mind?

Not a morsel If there's one thing Mr Dick is not, it is mad.

He's been called mad by his family, who would've shut him in an asylum.

'Mr Dick is the most friendly, amenable creature in existence.

'I rely on his judgement in all important matters.'

Well done!

Before long, Mr Murdstone replied to my aunt's letter,

saying that he was coming to speak to her himself the following day.

Janet! Janet! Donkeys!

Janet, donkeys! Donkeys!

Go along with you!

How dare you trespass, you bold-faced thing!

- It is Miss Murdstone. - I will not be trespassed upon!

Lead him off, Janet!! Go along with you! Lead him off, Janet!

Go away!

I don't allow anybody to ride over this turf. I make no exceptions.

Your regulation is rather awkward to strangers.

This boy, you should know,

has a rebellious spirit - a violent temper and intractable disposition.

Of all the boys in the world, this is the worst boy.

- Strong, Miss Murdstone. - Not too strong for the situation.

Indeed? Well, sir?

I placed him in a respectable business. He ran away.

The facts, I propose, speak for themselves.

This business - a blacking factory.

If he had been your own boy, you would've put him to it?

I have my own opinions as to the best mode of raising this particular boy.

- I say no more about them. - I see.

- What else do you have to say? - I have come to take him back.

I will dispose of him as I think proper.

If you seek to impede me in any way, if you step between us now,

you do so for ever.

What does the boy say? Are you ready to go?

Don't make me leave you! They made Mama unhappy!

They never cared for me! I want to stay here!

Mr Dick... what shall I do with this child?

I'd have him measured for a suit of clothes directly!

Mr Dick, give me your hand,

for your common sense is invaluable!

I'll take my chance with the boy.

If he is all you say he is, I can do as much for him as you have done.

But I don't believe a word of it!

- If you were a gentleman... - Stuff and nonsense!

How exquisitely polite! Overpowering!

I know the life you led his mother!

It was a woeful day when you came - making great eyes at her!

- You wouldn't say boo to a goose! - Elegant!

When you'd made sure of her, you began to train her

like a caged bird, teaching her to sing your notes!

It's insanity or intoxication!

You broke her heart, then punished the boy because of your own guilt!

There's the truth! And you and your instrument may make the most of it!

Who are you referring to?!

Good day, sir, and goodbye!

Good day to you, too, madam.

If you ride a donkey over my green again, I'll knock your bonnet off

and tread upon it!

Oh, Mr Dick, you'll consider yourself joint guardian with me of this boy?

- I'd be delighted! - He should take the name Trotwood.

- Trotwood Copperfield, eh? - Trotwood Copperfield!

Trotwood Copperfield!

- Why not? - Trotwood Copperfield! Hurrah!

Hooray! Hooray!

Flying high!

High in the sky! Look at it go!

My aunt proposed I should resume my education. I happily agreed.

You'll be the smartest boy in the school

He will

My new school was in Canterbury

and it was a somewhat more amiable, scholarly place than Mr Creakle's.

I was to board in the house of my aunt's lawyer and agent,

her old and trusted friend Mr Wickfield.

Is Mr Wickfield at home, Uriah Heep?

He is expecting you, Miss Trotwood, if you'll please to walk in.

Trot.

I am most grateful to you, Wickfield.

I'm sure my nephew will be very happy here.

Now, Trot, I must go if I'm to be home before dark.

Never be mean in anything.

Never be false. Never be cruel

Avoid those three vices

and I can always be hopeful of you.

It's just a little dust in my eye. It's nothing.

Come and meet my little housekeeper, Trotwood.

Trotwood... this is Agnes, my daughter.

She looks after me in every way. She will show you to your room.

You see we lead a pretty quiet life here.

Quiet and dull, I'm afraid.

- Not more dull for me than Agnes. - Than Agnes?

- Is it dull for you, Agnes? - Of course not, Papa.

She must stay where I can keep her safe.

I lost her mother. I lost her too young.

- You are tired, Papa. - Yes... yes.

I should go to bed now.

You are company for us both, Trotwood.

It is wholesome to have you here.

See to the candles, Agnes.

- I hope you are settling in well - Yes, thank you, Mr Heep.

I should be honoured if you would call me Uriah.

I suppose you are a great lawyer.

Me, Master Copperfield? Oh, no. I'm merely a clerk at present.

I'm well aware that I am the 'umblest person going.

My mother is likewise a very 'umble person

and my father's former calling was 'umble - he was a grave-digger.

What is he now?

He is partaking of glory at present.

But still, I have much to be grateful for

in Mr Wickfield's offer of articles otherwise not within my means.

Perhaps you'll be a partner one day, Uriah.

Oh, no, Master Copperfield. Ambition ain't for me.

A person like myself had better not... aspire.

If he is to get on in life... he must get on 'umbly.

I must go home. Mother will be getting uneasy.

For though we are so very 'umble... we are much attached to one another.

I suppose you'll be stopping here some time?

As long as I'm at school

Indeed. Then I should think that you would come into the business at last.

I should most like to write stories one day.

A most worthy ambition.

I bid you good evening, Master Copperfield.

My new school was an excellent place,

as different from Mr Creakle's as good from evil

The blacking factory life became so strange to me

that I began to believe it had never happened.

Time steals on unobserved.

The years glide by silently

and I move from childhood to youth.

The boy I was seems no part of me now.

I remember him as something left behind upon the road of life.

I must go and pack. I leave at first light.

Trotwood... I have already done it for you.

Thank you.

Mr Wickfield, there is a matter that demands your attention.

What?

Oh... Uriah. Yes, of course.

Do not concern yourself. I will look after him.

As you have always done.

Dear Agnes.

As dear to me as my own sister.

School days now over, the time had come to find my place in the world.

But it was with a lingering sense of unease that I left my childhood home.

Walk on!

I had never lost my dream of being a writer,

but I could hardly ask my aunt to support me in such an ambition,

so when she asked me if I should like to be articled as a clerk,

I agreed readily.

- Something wrong, Aunt? - A cold feeling came over me, Trot.

It was a donkey trespassing on my green! I know it!

I shouldn't have left Mr Dick alone.

His character is not suited to keeping donkeys off.

The premium is �1,000?

I wish it were a smaller amount. Few men are less mercenary.

But I have partners and they have their opinions on the subject.

They are immovable on the issue.

- I can't let you spend so much. - Trot, you are my adopted son.

My one aim is to see you provided for.

Good.

My position settled, it remained to find somewhere to live.

- Lucky you called, Mrs Trotgood. - Trotwood.

Shan't be able to hold onto these rooms.

My last gentleman was delighted with 'em.

If he'd had any choice, he'd never have left.

It's rather a steep climb, Mrs Crupp.

Perhaps so, Mrs Grotwood...

...but consider the benefits

of the purity of the air so near the top of the house!

Well, it's near the fire escape. That's something.

You won't find a sweeter set of rooms for the young gentleman.

Peppermint cordial, you understand, for my spasms.

The furniture - is it the last occupant's?

- It is, ma'am. - What became of him?

- He was took ill and... - Yes?

Well... he died.

- Good God! What did he die of? - Drink and smoke.

- Smoke? Not from the chimneys? - No, ma'am. Cigars and pipes.

That's not catching at any rate.

Young Mr Copperfull will be cared for

as though he were my own son!

Very well, Mrs Crupp, we'll take the rooms.

Your sister Betsey

would have been a hardworking and honest girl

- Be worthy of her. - As long as I am worthy of you...

...that's enough for me.

It was a fine thing to walk about the town with my house key,

coming and going without a word to anyone.

Yet I felt a part of me had been left behind in Canterbury.

I missed Agnes

and found only a blank where her smiling face used to be.

Alone in the city, I settled down into a state of equable low spirits.

Weeks and months slipped away and then, one day,

I looked up and everything changed.

Ah, Mr Copperfield!

This is my daughter Dora and her friend Miss Julia Mills

recently returned from Paris.

Miss Spenlow.

- Have you ever been in Paris? - Paris?

In France.

No, never.

I hope you'll go soon. You would like it.

My daughter's holding a picnic to celebrate her birthday.

- Perhaps you'd care to join us. - I-I would be delighted.

Excellent.

All was over in a moment. I had fulfilled my destiny.

I was a captive and a slave.

I loved Dora Spenlow... to distraction!

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