Chapters I and II Summary

In the first chapter, Henry James introduces his main character, Christopher Newman. Newman is enjoying his leisure at the Museum of the Louvre. Newman has looked at all of the famous works of art indicated in the tour book. He has also admired the copies of these works being created by women artists actively painting in the Louvre. Newman is not only described as being an attractive man, but also obviously American.

Newman soon begins to pay particular attention to one lady who is painting in the museum. He suddenly asks the lady how much it would cost to purchase the painting on which she is working. The lady hesitates in giving the price but finally tells him the price of her painting is 2,000 francs. Although Newman realizes the price is high, he agrees to buy the...