Chapter 21 Summary

While Nicholas is in New York, Bronck, his business manager, persuades him to consider investing in the Mary Clayton, a new river boat scheduled to make its maiden voyage to Albany. Later, he feels uneasy at the changes he notices in Van Ryn, and he also considers his interest in boat racing to be dangerous.

Once he examines the boat and approves of young Captain Hall, Nicholas makes a secretive trip to buy opium and is disappointed that the Mary Clinton has outdistanced its only rival, the Rochester, with ease. Returning to Dragonwyck earlier than expected, he finds that Miranda isn't there and immediately questions Peggy. When she get there, he can tell by her appearance that she obviously left in a hurry.

Miranda reveals that she has been to see Dr. Turner, and he panics when she alludes to his murder of...