Chapter 9 Summary

It is the morning of Edith's wedding day. Edith wakes up earlier than usual and catches a glimpse of herself in the mirror, surprised to see how pale and drawn she looks. She tells herself that she is no longer young and that this is her last chance. She thinks Penelope is right when she says that it is time for Edith to forget her high hopes, the ones she was born with and face reality instead.

Her impending marriage would assure her the comforts of pleasant company, comfort and proper holidays. The prospect is reasonable and she is a reasonable woman. Geoffrey Long had courted her in the traditional way. Edith had been impressed by his devotion, generosity and endless flowers and finally accepted his mother's opal ring. Geoffrey will provide Edith with a complete life, including a home, new friends and...