Book Six

Chapters 8 - 14

Summary

Tom meets Sophia. It is a dramatic meeting and he confesses his love for her. She cries in his arms and he implores her not to give herself to Blifil. Mrs Western meets her brother and tells her that Sophia is in love with Tom. The Squire is thunderstruck and he charges to the room where Sophia & Tom are present. Sophia faints and her father rushes to her aid. When Sophia recovers, the Squire gives vent to his anger at Tom. Tom and the Squire argue, while the parson makes peace between them.

Squire Western visits Mr. Allworthy and the former complains about Tom Jones to the latter. Blifil too learns that Sophia is in love with Tom. Blifil then tells Squire Allworthy that Tom filled the house with riot and debauchery when the Squire was ill in bed. Blifil also tells Allworthy about Tom being found with Molly in the woods. Thwackum is summoned and he confirms this account. Blifil manages to portray a monstrous picture of Tom.

Allworthy begins to harangue Tom with the latter's many iniquities. Tom is feeling low already and is unable to defend himself. Allworthy then accuses Tom of trying to steal Sophia and also of being ungrateful to Blifil. The Squire banishes Tom from the house. Everyone criticizes the Squire's harsh move.

In the meanwhile, Lady Western lectures Sophia for long. Then Sophia reads Tom's letter to her and is upset that he has taken his leave from her. Sophia is imprisoned in her room all this while. Mrs. Honour tries to comfort Sophia and recommends Blifil to her. Sophia learns that Tom has been chucked out of the house and is penniless. She sends some money to Tom through Black George. Black George gives this money to Tom, but hides TomÂ’s wallet with the money given by Allworthy, which Tom had lost in the fields.

Squire Western and his sister talk about Sophia's confinement. Lady Western does not approve of Sophia being locked up and has the young woman released.

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