There is indeed communication that takes place between Pip
and Biddy in this chapter, but it certainly is not direct, nor is it alone. The
conversation revolved around the fact that Pip had just been offered his fortune, to
become a gentlemen by way of word through Mr. Jaggers. Pip wanders into the room
wondering if Joe communicated with Biddy the good news. Joe tells Pip he thought Pip
would want to share his good fortune himself, although the tone and body language of Joe
is rather resentful.
Biddy takes Joe's cue and tries to
express great happiness for Pip, but likewise demonstrates resentfulness. Pip notes as
the narrator:
"There was a certain touch of sadness in their
congratulations that I rather
resented."
Joe and Biddy
continue to talk in Pip's presence regarding what they should do about his being gone.
They wonder how they will get along without him. This guilts Pip and further develops
the theme of shame that the book continues to
express.
Before the night is out, Biddy asks Pip rather
directly if he has thought about how often he intends to visit. This pushes him to
consider the nature of his expectations and the unknown that he is about to explore. He
has little to say.
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