Oliver Apprenticed to Mr. Sowerberry

The board, having failed to apprentice Oliver to a sweep, considers sending him to sea. However, Mr. Sowerberry, the parochial undertaker, offers to take Oliver as an apprentice. Oliver is informed of his new fate and, showing little emotion, is led away by Mr. Bumble to the undertaker's shop. He is introduced to Mrs. Sowerberry, who is displeased with his small size, and is given a meal of dog's leftovers. His bed is placed under the counter, among the coffins, a grim introduction to his new trade. This event marks Oliver's first entry into 'public life' as a working boy.