Chapter 3 Summary

Constance is becoming restless, and her father suggests that she find herself a lover. During this time, a young Irish playwright comes to stay at Wragby. The young man has quite a following in the United States. Clifford has invited him in the hope that the young man may help him expand his own popularity in America. However, Clifford is disappointed when he finally meets Michaelis to find that his character is not as gentlemanly as his appearance implies.

Connie takes a liking to Michaelis and invites him to meet with her in her private sitting room. Before long they become lovers. Clifford knows nothing of his wife's affair. He admits to her that he hates Michaelis because he thinks the man is a bounder. Outwardly, Connie defends him, though somewhat weakly, while inwardly she admires him greatly for accomplishing what Clifford only...