Summary

In Chapter 16, Georges spends the winter dining once a week at the Walters’. Madeleine usually prefers to stay at home. Frequently, Mme. Walter tries to secretly embrace him. He repulses her coldly and tells her that he will stop coming if she persists in this type of behavior. Rumors circulate regarding Suzanne’s marriage prospects. People say she is to be engaged to a marquis. One day while at the Walters’ for lunch, Georges confesses his love to Suzanne and implores her not to marry anyone just yet. She consents, as she would rather marry Georges than anyone else, although she is confused since he is still married to Madeleine. Afterwards, he asks his wife if she will be joining him for dinner at the Walters’ on Friday. She says that she would prefer to remain at home. On Friday, Georges hires a...