The Shakespeare Stealer

Chapter 13 opens with Widge thinking to himself as he tries to fall asleep. He still has not figured out a way to steal Hamlet and return to Falconer, although he now has ample access to the theatre.

The next day is Sunday, so the boys attend church. Afterward, Sander declares to Widge, “we have the whole day off and the whole city at our disposal. Where shall we go?” (92). The two set out to explore the city, going to the top of St. Paul’s Cathedral, stopping at booksellers’ stalls, and conversing about the sights in St. Paul’s courtyard. In a bookstall, Widge notices Falconer approaching him, so he bolts away through the crowd without providing an explanation to Sander. Widge becomes so focused on running away from Falconer that he gets lost. After walking for some time, Widge finally asks an old farmer for directions, which he follows through progressively more dismal surroundings.

The chapter closes as Widge—lost and alone in an unfamiliar part of London—is approached by a group of thieves who want to steal the clothes off his back.