Chapter 5 Summary

The next morning the tenant farmers and their families begin to arrive at Dragonwyck, bringing produce and livestock as a tribute to Nicholas, their patroon. His bailiff, Dirck Duyckman, is also there with his ledger to record their payments as they pass by in line. Both Miranda and the count are impressed with the way Nicholas deals with the farmers, although the Frenchman detects some unrest in the crowd, and the holiday celebration also begins at the same time.

As the last few farmers approach to pay their rent, Klaas Becker says that he has no intention of doing so and creates quite a scene. Nicholas decides that the man must leave the farm the following day, and says that he will be given some gold coins before he goes. Then, he speaks to the crowd, reassuring them of his concern and reminding...