The narrator digresses to explain the chapter and book divisions. Chapters are divided to allow readers to ponder what they have just read. The narrator advises readers to avoid reading too quickly, suggesting they should slow down to fully absorb the story.

As Adams and Joseph prepare to part ways, Adams discovers that rather than carrying sermons in his saddlebags as he supposed, he has only shirts. Since he now has no reason to continue to London, Adams decides to return home with Joseph. After borrowing money to pay their bill, they set out with Adams on foot and Joseph on the horse, a method of travel known as “ride and tie” (67). Adams begins walking, thinking that Joseph will soon pass him on horseback, but unbeknownst to Adams, Joseph is detained with a bill for the horse’s care that he is unable to pay. Adams stops to wait for Joseph at a nearby pub, resolving to turn back if Joseph does not come soon.

Two horsemen come to the pub, and Adams overhears their conversation about a horse being detained. Adams suddenly realizes that the men are talking about his horse, and he decides to return to the inn after the storm outside passes.