Oliver Sent to Mrs. Mann's Farm

The parish authorities decide to 'farm' Oliver out to a branch workhouse run by Mrs. Mann, a woman who receives a small weekly stipend per child. Mrs. Mann systematically starves and neglects the infants in her care, appropriating most of the money for herself. Many children die under her supervision, but Oliver survives, though he remains pale, thin, and small for his age. This period of deprivation hardens Oliver's body and spirit, preparing him for the further hardships he will face.