The Subplot of the Cake Woman and the Five Shillings

The protagonist's attempt to give away the stolen money to a cake vendor, and his later demand for cakes.

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The Gift of Five Shillings

The Gift of Five Shillings The Decision to Give After stealing five shillings, the protagonist is tormented by guilt. He decides to give the money to an old cake vendor near the chemist's. He presses the coins into her hand without a word. The Relief He feels a wonderful sense of being honest again. He imagines her children will not go hungry. He is proud of his act. The Irony The money was stolen, so the charity is tainted. He is trying to buy back his honor.

The Demand for Cakes

The Demand for Cakes The Return Later, when he is starving, he approaches the same cake woman and claims that the money was an advance payment for cakes. He demands cakes in return. The Confrontation The woman refuses, but he insists, threatening to call the police. He takes several cakes, arguing that she owes him. The Success He gets some cakes, but the exchange is bitter. He has turned his gift into a transaction. His moral position is compromised.

Afternoon, Part III

Part IV