A Tale of Two Cities: Book 2, Chapter 14 Summary & Analysis

Outside of Tellson's Bank, Jerry Cruncher sees an approaching funeral procession. An angry crowd harasses the drivers of the hearse with shouts of "Spies!" Cruncher learns the hearse carries the body of Roger Cly, a convicted spy against the English.

Jerry follows the mob, which roughs up the drivers and takes over the procession. They drive into the country and bury Roger Cly with mock ceremony. Then they start carousing, busting up local pubs until the police intervene.

Back at home, Jerry once again complain's about his wife's praying. His son, Young Jerry, asks his father about where he goes at night. Jerry tells his son that he goes fishing, as Mrs. Cruncher knows.

That night, Young Jerry sneaks out after his father, whose "fishing gear" includes a crowbar and ropes. He follows his father to the grave of Roger Cly, and watches his father start digging, then runs in terror, with visions of Cly's coffin chasing after him.

The next morning, frustrated that Cly's body had been missing, Jerry Cruncher furiously rebukes his wife for her praying and intervening in the work of an "honest tradesman." Later, Young Jerry asks his father what a "resurrection man" is and says he would like to be one when he grows up. Jerry is worried, but also a little proud.