Summary

Angelica feels saddened by the fact that Mr. Hancock’s desire for her has dried up. When Mr. Hancock rises early to sit with the mermaid, Angelica follows him and learns of his secret. At first, she sees nothing, but with Mr. Hancock’s prodding she remembers an experience she had as a child with a similar being and sees the mermaid in the tank. She blames the mermaid for the sorrow in her house and vows to exhibit it like the monster it is. Angelica decides to hold a party to show off the mermaid and begins preparing the house.

Chapter 21 picks up with Bel Fortescue, who is pregnant and spends most of her time in the bath. In Chapter 22, Mr. Hancock and Angelica have forgotten Sukie in their preparations for the mermaid party. Angelica tells her about the mermaid...