Summary

Chapter 16: Philip settled into a routine with Rachel. The servants all referred to Rachel as “the mistress” now and the cook asked Rachel for orders daily. In the afternoons, Rachel went visiting and then would rest upon returning home. The dogs always went to her room with her and would come down when she did. Philip grew increasingly excited about seeing Rachel as the days passed and made excuses to spend even a few minutes with her.

One night in December, Philip looked over the lawns from his window and saw a vixen slinking across the yard. He heard its sobbing call and wondered if Rachel was asleep in her room.

When Christmas neared, Philip planned to have a Christmas dinner for all of the tenants. Rachel ordered several packages and would not share what was in them. Philip wondered what to give...