Chapter 31 Summary

This chapter sees Michael's business falling into ruins. A mistake by one of his employees, coupled with a customer failing to pay a debt and the losses he suffered in speculating on the corn crop, cause him to go into bankruptcy. Michael honestly reveals everything he has, and all of his belongings are auctioned off. He goes to live with Jopp, who now lives by the Priory Mill. He refuses to see Elizabeth-Jane, who is sent away by Jopp.

Elizabeth-Jane then goes to her father's old business, which has been bought by Farfrae. She learns that his employees are happy to work for Farfrae, even though he pays them less. As the chapter ends, we see that Farfrae's business is a going concern and is busier than ever.

Chapter 31 Analysis

Michael completes his journey from prominent town leader to pauper in this chapter...