Summary

Act III is one continuous scene with no divisions. It takes place once again in the drawing room of the Chamberlaynes’ London flat, though it is two years later. Lavinia is preparing for a party when Edward comes in. They joke with each other and Edward compliments her on her dress. They discuss how large the party will be and that they hope another party will keep some of their guests from coming. They talk about how much they are looking forward to going away to their vacation house and being alone together.

Julia arrives early, apologizing but claiming she has to go to the other party, but they are unlikely to have food so she wanted to stop here and eat. She says she has Alex with her, and he comes up a moment later. He tells them about his trip to Kinkanja and the...