Chapters 4-5 Summary

Dagobert sees them off after four days. Briest is happy to have them home, has questions in profusion, approves of the chic purchases and does not protest the cost. When he suggests that they also take a honeymoon, Mamma calls him "incorrigible." With the wedding date set for 3 October, preparations for Wedding Eve proceed. Mamma advises caution in new situations. Effi pockets a new letter from Innstetten to worry about homesickness, but Mamma reminds her to read it. Effi's smiles at his letters and convinces Mamma that their marriage will be ideal. Brilliance, honor and diversions must accompany love, for Effi hates boredom. Work on the house is nearly complete. In four weeks, the newlyweds will sail to Venice. Mamma admires the letter's balance, but wonders if Effi loves Innstetten. Effi claims that she loves anyone who wishes her well, is...