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In Chains, what is the discussion at the Tea Water Pump?

In chapter five, Isabel is sent to the Tea Water Pump to get "special" water for the Locktons.  She doesn't know how to get there, so Curzon volunteers to show Isabel the way. 


Chapter six then begins with Curzon leading Isabel to the Tea Water Pump.  Curzon moves very quickly, and Isabel can barely keep up.  Curzon eventually slows down once he realizes that Isabel is struggling to stay with him.  Curzon explains that the...

In chapter five, Isabel is sent to the Tea Water Pump to get "special" water for the Locktons.  She doesn't know how to get there, so Curzon volunteers to show Isabel the way. 


Chapter six then begins with Curzon leading Isabel to the Tea Water Pump.  Curzon moves very quickly, and Isabel can barely keep up.  Curzon eventually slows down once he realizes that Isabel is struggling to stay with him.  Curzon explains that the Tea Water Pump is where all of the rich people get their water from, because it supposedly tastes better.  He also explains that he must pick up a package along the way.


He picks up the package and some rolls for Isabel to eat.  She is deeply grateful.  While Isabel eats, Curzon asks her if Ruth is Isabel's sister.  Isabel confirms that fact, and Curzon then understands why Isabel willingly took the slap from Madam Lockton even though Ruth was guilty.  


Curzon sees that Isabel doesn't have a deep loyalty to Madam Lockton, so he asks Isabel if she would be willing to spy on the Locktons.  The Locktons are Loyalists.  Curzon and his master are Patriots.  Curzon would like Isabel to report to him anything that might be of interest to the Patriots about what she sees and hears in the Lockton household.  He also tells Isabel that she can earn her freedom back by being a spy. 



"Keep your voice down. You just have to listen and alert me if you hear anything important.  You won't be in any danger." 



Isabel doesn't believe that the Locktons would say anything in front of her anyway.  Curzon replies that the Locktons don't consider Isabel a person, so they won't guard their talk at all.  Isabel briefly considers Curzon's proposal and logic, but she turns him down at the close of the chapter. 

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