Chapter 5 Summary

Connie goes for a walk in the woods with Clifford in his bath chair. He becomes angered at the areas of oak that were denuded by his father to help the war effort. Connie is saddened by the view of the new coalmine and chemical works at Stacks Gates Colliery. Clifford mentions that the Tevershall miners are talking of striking and that he is hoping to revitalize the industry. Clifford admits that coming to the woods makes him mind not having a son. Suddenly, he suggests the idea of Connie having a son by another man so that he can have an heir to Wragby. Clifford proposes that Connie have an occasional affair if she needs to, so long as she always comes back to him so that they can retain their habitual intimacy.

Inwardly, Connie questions whether she can continue to live...