In Barchester, the dean dies. The news reaches the Prime Minister, who writes up a list of five possible candidates, none of which is Mr. Slope. The news has not reached the party yet.
Mr. Arabin is full of sadness and anger toward Eleanor for not returning his love. He had hoped to get more information about her feelings at the party but is turned off when he sees her arrive with Mr. Slope. He discusses the matter with the signora because she is such a good listener. At first the signora wants to seduce him because he has shown his preference for another woman. However, as Mr. Arabin continues to.....