Chapter 8 Summary

Miranda reconsiders her decision to leave Dragonwyck even though things go on as if the memorable day she enjoyed in Hudson with Nicholas and Katrine had never happened and he spends most of his time in the tower room. At the same time, the tenant farmers grow more rebellious as St. Nicholas Day draws near. According to the Dutch custom, children receive gifts on this holiday, and Katrine and her friends gather together at Dragonwyck. Her father comes in, dressed in the appropriate garb of the fourth century cleric, and entertains them. At this point, Miranda has begun to feel some sympathy for Johanna, and she does what she can to please the woman.

The pastor of their church expresses his regret that the down-renters have destroyed the canopy over the Van Ryn's pew, and Nicholas calmly tells him that he will replace...