Second Period, pgs. 275-312 Summary

At Aunt Verinder's house, Drusilla overhears Godfrey saying that he would do something that day. She then finds him talking to Rachel. Rachel says she accepted a dreadful responsibility with the Diamond and has a secret. Godfrey again asks Rachel to marry him. After a discussion, Rachel accepts his proposal. A few minutes later, Lady Verinder dies.

The engagement is known ten days after Lady Verinder's funeral. Godfrey's father is named Rachel's guardian. It's decided that Rachel will stay in Brighton at the home of the elder Abelwhite. Drusilla helps out with Rachel's move and is invited to stay with her at Brighton. She helps prepare the house for Rachel's arrival. Bruff escorts the ladies to Brighton.

Rachel tells Drusilla that she will never marry Godfrey. When Godfrey arrives later that day, he tells Drusilla that the...