Part 3, Chapter 1 Summary

Two hours after Florence Dowell dies, John Dowell tells Leonora Ashburnham that he is free to marry "the girl," Nancy Rufford. Leonora answers that yes, he might. The scene jumps to Branshaw Manor after Edward Ashburnham's funeral, when Leonora and John are talking in the twilight. She surprises him with two shocking bits of information. Florence and Edward were having an affair, and Florence committed suicide. John the narrator pieces together the story of what he thinks must have happened.

Edward Ashburnham and Nancy Rufford follow a path that leads them past trees and benches. Florence is close behind. Nancy's white gown stands out in the darkness; Florence's black gown hides her from notice. Edward and Nancy have an animated conversation in their usual intimate way. Edward tells Nancy that she is the person for whom he cares most in the...