Summary

After the dance, a new intimacy exists between Hirst, Hewet, Helen, and Rachel. Hirst and Hewet visit the villa frequently. Rachel is conscious of a new perspective in life following the dance. She goes for a long walk the next morning, singing and thinking over the events of the night before. Rachel asks Ridley about Gibbon, which has been recommended to her by Hirst. Rachel discovers that Hirst has already sent her a copy. Rachel goes for a walk with her new copy of Gibbon and a text by Balzac which Ridley has given her. She is happy and wanders somewhat aimlessly, thinking abstractly about what love is and how to know what one feels. It is ambiguous as to whether she has a particular person in mind or whether she just does not understand the feeling.

The hotel patrons check their mail...