Belinda. Volume 3, Chapters 26 and 27: Virginia and A Discovery Summary

These two chapters explain the contents of Mr. Hervey's letter, which is his story of how he became involved with Virginia St. Pierre. Virginia is actually called Rachel, and she lived in a cottage in the woods with her grandmother after her mother died. Her grandmother kept her away from men and other corrupting influences, wanting to keep her safe. One day, Mr. Hervey wandered into the wood and became lost. He asked at the cottage for directions and was impressed by the beauty and sweet naivety of Rachel. Later, when the grandmother died, he moved Rachel into the care of a woman called Mrs. Ormond, who looked after her as if she were her own daughter. Mr. Hervey decided that Rachel should be tutored in reading and writing...