Chapters 8-12 Summary

Philip quickly becomes close to the maid, Mary Ann. Aunt Louisa is upset by this because she feels he should be close to her. Aunt Louisa, however, has never had children of her own despite a desire to do so and does not know how to behave around children. Aunt Louisa tries to win Philip's affections, but finds this pursuit difficult. One day Philip gets into trouble when his playing disturbs his uncle's Sunday afternoon nap. Aunt Louisa comes to comfort Philip, but he sends her away with unkind words, causing her a great deal of hurt. The following Sunday Philip asks his uncle what he should do if he cannot play. Uncle William gives Philip a book and instructs him to sit in the dining room and learn the day's prayers. Philip does as instructed, but soon realizes he will...