In this chapter, Dr. Frederick Treves meets Joseph Merrick, known as the "Elephant Man." Treves arrives at a shop early in the morning to escort Merrick to the hospital. Merrick's appearance is obscured by a large black hat, a gray cloth covering his face, and a long black coat, making it difficult for anyone to see his deformities. Merrick struggles to enter the cab due to his physical condition, and onlookers, including young boys and a postman, mock him, thinking he is a strange lady.

At the hospital, Treves examines Merrick's body in detail, noting his deformities. Merrick is quiet and frightened, while the nurse assisting seems fearful of him. Treves notices that Merrick keeps his card, even though he assumes Merrick cannot read.

Two years later, Merrick is found by the police, dirty, tired, and carrying Treves’ card. They bring him to the London Hospital. However, since Merrick is not ill, he cannot stay at the hospital. Treves explains Merrick's situation to the hospital's chairman, Mr. Carr Gomm. Carr Gomm writes a letter to The Times newspaper, asking for public donations to provide Merrick with a permanent home.

The letter reveals Merrick's tragic life, including being abandoned in Belgium after being exploited for money. The readers of The Times respond generously, donating £50,000, ensuring Merrick can live at the hospital for the rest of his life.

Dr. Frederick Treves, a physician at the London Hospital, recounts the story of Joseph Merrick, also known as "The Elephant Man," who was found wandering in a disheveled state with Dr. Treves's business card in his hand. Merrick was taken to the hospital, where Dr. Treves arranged for his immediate care. However, as Merrick was not medically ill, he could not remain as a patient indefinitely.

Mr. Carr Gomm, the Hospital Chairman, appealed for public assistance by writing a letter to The Times newspaper. In the letter, Gomm explained that Merrick, then 27 years old, had lived a life filled with hardship and mockery, having been displayed as a spectacle for public entertainment. He had been shown to the public for a fee and later to Belgium with a man named Silcock, who exploited his condition for financial gain. After amassing a small sum of money, Silcock stole his savings, leaving Merrick penniless and alone.

Merrick's disfigurement made it nearly impossible for him to work or live a normal life, as his appearance frightened most people. Despite his appearance, he was a gentle, intelligent, and thoughtful person who could read and write, enjoyed making crafts, and had a kind nature.

In just a week, donations totaling £50,000 secured Merrick a lifelong place at the hospital. He settled into a comfortable room furnished with a bed, table, and chairs, and began to thrive in his new environment. Dr. Treves visited him regularly, bringing him captivating books, especially love stories, which provided him with a sense of connection.