Summary

In Chapter 65, Cornelis feels light again as he goes home and starts packing. Taking Jacob’s advice, he does not blame Sophia for what has happened. He packs light, leaving much of his clothing, proof of his vanity, behind. He wants to show Sophia that he can be impulsive in the name of love, just like she can be. After realizing that God does not exist, Cornelis is willing to take responsibility for his own actions.

Downstairs, he looks in on Willem and Maria in their bed. Sophia sleeps between them. Cornelis feels like he is intruding on their happiness, a stranger in his own home. He leaves a note telling Maria that he is leaving his house to her and Sophia. He asks that she not reveal that Sophia is not his child. He also asks her to send money to Sophia...