Summary

The novel includes a subchapter that is told from Ursula’s perspective. Her real name is Margaret Burns, and she is a trained singer and actress. She used to be quite successful, but she received little work after turning 30 years old. By chance, she encountered a show in which a woman stripped off her clothes in a cage with a bear. The woman performing in the show used the stage name Ursula. The manager of the show decided to replace her, stating that she was too old. The woman—referred to only as First Ursula—trained Margaret to become the new Ursula. One day, First Ursula said that she once had a sexual relationship with wealthy Spokane industrialist Lemuel Brand. Brand falsely promised to give First Ursula ownership of a hotel. Eventually, Margaret met Brand and mentioned First Ursula. Brand drew up papers...