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Bleak House
By Charles Dickens (1812-1 870)

</> The Chancery Court had jurisdiction over all matters of equity, including
administration of estates, the guardianship of orphans, and disputed property
disbursement. In Dickens' time, some cases could take years to be settled,
changing the lives of those involved.

Esther Summerson, a young woman raised in a tough and unloving atmosphere,
is unexpectedly requested to be a companion to two teenage orphans, Richard

Carstone and Ada Clare, for whom the court has appointed as guardian, John Jarndyce. They take up residence at
Mr. Jarndyce's home, Bleak House. The story of their lives and fortunes is the main thrust of the novel, and is
related at times through the eyes of Esther, whose gentle point of view gives the reader a different and more
intimate perspective.

Several other colorful characters are wound into the story. Nearly insane Miss Flite, who for years has attended
court every day, with her little folder of documents, is ever hopeful of a settlement. Mr. Boythorn is a boisterous
friend of Jarndyce who has a vendetta with Sir Leicester Dedlock. The Jellyby Family, invariably on the verge of a
disaster, is neglected by their Mother who is obsessed with an overseas project. The Smallweed family is mean and
avaricious - squeezing money from poor clients. Mr. Skimpole is the childlike captivating friend of Mr. Jarndyce who
sees no harm in living off everybody else. Mr. Guppy fawns after Esther, and plots to steal documents with his friend
Weevle. Mr. Woodcourt is a gentle surgeon and family friend, who becomes a hero.

Read by Mil Nicholson; total running time: 39:24:50. Dedicated Proof-Listener: HeartofTexas. Meta-Coordinator &
Cataloging: Arielle Lipshaw.

83 This recording is in the public domain and may be reproduced, distributed, or modified without permission. For more
information or to volunteer, visit librivox.org. Cover image taken from the edition published by Bradbury and Evans,
_^ (1853). Author picture taken from "Great Britain and Her Queen" by Anne E. Keeling (1897). Copyright expired in US,
<g Canada, EU, and all countries with author's life +70 yrs laws. Cover design by Janette Brown. This design is in the public
S domain.