Chapter 5 Summary

In the wee hours of morning, Flora wakes to hear Adam and another man named Reuben (her cousin) arguing outside her window. It seems one of the cows lost a leg in Adam's care and now will be worthless at market. Another farm hand, Mark Dolour, joins in the fight. Reuben accuses him of stealing dropped chicken feathers, which Mark admits he gives to his daughter for her doll's hat. Flora opens the window and politely asks the men to quiet down, which they do with "flabbergasted silence". Flora finally wakes at eight thirty and surveys her room, deciding she likes the rich mahogany furniture, mirrors, fireplace, and magnificent if dirty curtains. She goes downstairs for breakfast and finds Adam in the kitchen, cutting turnips and watching the livestock through an open door. Flora declines porridge and makes herself tea, bread and butter...