Duluoz examines the purpose and meaning of childbirth, finally deciding that it is a great disservice to the world to bear a child who begins life plummeting toward death.
Duluoz finally takes Irwin's advice and begins making the rounds of publishing houses. Meeting with success, Duluoz is given a monthly stipend against an advance. Duluoz thinks it's time to marry Ruth and settle down in Connecticut. Ruth develops an ever-present rash because of Duluoz.
The other Ruth confides in Duluoz that she is in love with his close friend Julien. Ruth had shown no interest in Julien until he married and became a father. Duluoz arranges for Ruth to join him in an evening at Julien's house. While Ruth is talking to Julien's wife and.....
