Chapter 6 Summary

As the chapter begins, a new character enters the scene. He is a young Scotsman who appears fascinated by Michael's announcement that he needs a manager. While standing in the entrance to the inn, he writes a note, which he asks a waiter to pass on to Michael. He also asks for the name of a good inn nearby. Elizabeth-Jane overhears him and is fascinated by his accent, so she suggests to her mother that they stay at the same in (the Three Mariners).

The note is brought to Michael, who appears interested. He quickly gets lost in thought and then heads to the Three Mariners himself. He is able to leave unobserved because most of the people at the dinner have become drunk, which he seems to find distasteful. As Michael journeys to the inn, we learn from Hardy that it a...