This section of the novel comes in Chapter 54, which
narrates how, in spite of Pip's best efforts, Magwitch is captured by the crown. What is
key to note in this chapter is how Magwitch's capture changes Pip's feelings towards his
benefactor, and how he very kindly keeps the loss of his fortune away from Magwitch, so
he dies under the illusion that he has succeeded in his aim of "making" a gentleman. The
passage where Pip reveals his loss of wealth goes as
follows:
No.
I had thought about that while we had been there side by side. No. Apart from any
inclinations of my own, I understood Wemmick's hint now. I foresaw that, being
convicted, his possessions would be forfeited to the
Crown.
Thus with the capture
of Magwitch and his state as prisoner, the Crown (or government of England) seizes all
of his assets and wealth, meaning that Pip is not left with any money. So, a sad truth,
but what is more important to focus on in this chapter is how Pip matures and develops
through his loss of money, and also how he comes to care for Magwitch as a kind of
father-figure.
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