Chapter 4 Summary

At Meredith's hotel, before and after breakfast, Meredith makes a phone call that is obviously not answered. He thumps his fist against the lobby telephone, prompting the landlord's wife to ask what's wrong. With a huff, Meredith heads for the theater. He keeps up an inner dialogue with Hilary. When he has time, Meredith intends to write Hilary about his frustration. Meredith will list the many acts of kindness he has offered Hilary even though Hilary abuses him by not responding. John Harbour, the juvenile lead, interrupts Meredith's mental grumbling by expressing his enthusiasm for this first professional opportunity. Does he have time for coffee before rehearsal? Meredith curtly gives a negative answer and gets some satisfaction from seeing Harbour's crestfallen slump.

In the hotel's private function room, rehearsals begin. Stella is so fascinated by the actors and the play that she forgets...