Chapter 7 Summary

Edith has lunch with Mr. Neville and afterward, they take a walk to the top of what seems like a mountain to Edith; the hotel and all its inhabitants appear to be at the opposite end of the universe from that vantage point. When she asks Mr. Neville who goes to this place, he replies simply, "People like us." Edith notes that Mr. Neville is a man of few words, although the few words he does speak are carefully selected and impeccably delivered. She remarks to herself that, while people expect writers to entertain them, no one ever thinks to entertain writers.

Noticing the expression on Edith's face, Mr. Neville says that she might feel better if she tells him what she is thinking. Edith dismisses her thoughts and asks Mr. Neville what he is doing at the hotel, saying that he must...