The novel begins as John Jasper leaves a London opium den.
Meanwhile, Jasper, having an interest in the cathedral crypt, seeks the company of Durdles, a man.
They quarrel good-naturedly, which they apparently do frequently during his visits.
The next day, Edwin visits Rosa at the Nuns\' House, the boarding school where she lives.
Edwin confides that he has misgivings about his betrothal to Rosa Bud.
The next evening, Edwin Drood visits Jasper, who is the choirmaster at Cloisterham Cathedral.
The novel begins as John Jasper leaves a London opium den