Summary

In Chapter 4, Betton worries that Vyse might suspect Betton of having altered the content of some of the letters. Meanwhile, Betton has accepted the idea that his second novel is essentially a failure, as reflected by bad reviews and a relative lack of positive fan letters. Following Vyse’s expressed theories about the fan letters, the letters cease nearly completely. Betton worries that if he fires Vyse now, Vyse will think that Betton is ashamed about the lack of letters. One day, in response to the lack of letters, Vyse asks if Betton would employ Vyse in any other work around the house. Betton has no other work to give Vyse, but soon, more letters begin to arrive. The letters are fewer and less frequent, but they are more detailed, eloquent, and laudatory. Betton is pleased to see that the letters praise the book...