Provis

• The New Identity: The convict reveals his real name is Abel Magwitch, but he adopts the pseudonym "Provis" to maintain his safety while in London. He notes that Mr. Jaggers has been his lawyer since his trial years ago.
• A Creator's Pride: Provis expresses immense pride in having "made" Pip a gentleman. He offers Pip a thick pocket-book full of money, insisting that everything he owns belongs to Pip.
• Immediate Danger: Pip is deeply concerned about the risk Provis has taken by returning to England, where his presence is a capital offense. While Provis suggests using disguises like wigs and spectacles, Pip realizes the danger is far more serious.
• The Secret Shared: Pip decides to house Provis in a nearby lodging and confide in his friend Herbert Pocket. Before any information is shared, Provis insists on making Herbert swear an absolute oath of secrecy on a Bible.
• Confirmation from Jaggers: Pip visits Mr. Jaggers, who confirms that Abel Magwitch is indeed his sole benefactor from New South Wales. Jaggers warns Pip to be extremely careful and to judge the situation only by legal evidence rather than appearances.
• The Failed Disguise: Despite Pip's efforts to buy respectable clothes for Provis, he finds it impossible to hide the man's convict nature. Provis's manner of sitting, eating, and standing remains a "dreadful mystery" that screams of his criminal past.
• Magwitch’s Early Life: Provis recounts a childhood of extreme poverty, where he was a "ragged little creature" forced to steal turnips to survive. He spent most of his life tramping, begging, and moving in and out of jail.
• The Villain Compeyson: Provis details his history with Compeyson, a gentlemanly swindler who took him on as a partner. Compeyson used his superior social standing to manipulate Magwitch, eventually leading to their joint arrest for forgery.
• Injustice at Trial: At their trial, Compeyson’s "well-brought up" appearance and good character references earned him a lighter seven-year sentence, while Magwitch was labeled a "hardened offender" and given fourteen years.
• Connections Revealed: Herbert realizes the connection between these stories and Miss Havisham. He informs Pip that the man Arthur (Compeyson’s associate) was Miss Havisham’s half-brother, and Compeyson himself was the lover who jilted her.
• Resolution to Flee: Horrified by the realization that Compeyson is a dangerous enemy who would likely inform on Provis to save himself, Pip decides they must take Provis abroad as soon as possible.