Summary

Safe at the Midshipman in Chapter 49, Florence sleeps until dinner time. When she wakes up, she sees the bruise her father left on her chest and is heartbroken all over. She feels lost and confused and Cuttle makes her as nice a dinner as he can manage on his own. They discuss Walter and Cuttle keeps repeating, “he was drowned” over and over. When the dinner is over, Florence cleans up and Cuttle is charmed and overwhelmed by her love and attention. He continues to repeat “Walter was drowned” as they go about their evening. Cuttle offers to buy her any clothing or supplies she may need, knowing she now has nothing. Florence refuses but Cuttle tells her where his money is in case she changes her mind. Cuttle continues to mention Walter but will not elaborate.

In the morning, Cuttle continues to...