Volume I, Chapters VII - VII Summary

VII - After a Year

A year has passed since the death of George's wife and while George appears to be recovered physically, emotionally he is still bereft. Robert wrangles an invitation from his uncle, Sir Michael, to visit Audley Court; hoping another change of scene might lift George's spirits. To Robert's surprise, a letter from his cousin, Alicia, indicates that Lady Audley feels too ill to have house guests at this time and rescinds the invitation. Undaunted, Robert arranges for them to still go to Audley, but to take up lodgings in the Sun Inn in the village. In this way he can continue to divert George's attention without encroaching on Sir Michael's hospitality or worsening Lady Audley's condition. When Robert chances upon his uncle's carriage, he meets his new aunt, who...