Chapter 17 Summary

As Connie and Hilda are nearing London, they have a discussion about relationships. Hilda is critical of Connie for being a "slave to someone else's idea" of her, and a servant at that. (Chapter 17, page 261) Connie denies that is the case, and although she at last feels that her sister is no longer superior to her, she also feels that all other women have lost their luster somehow. Connie is unhappy in London; the people seem lifeless. Even Paris doesn't hold the sensuality of her youth. It is worn and faded. All she sees wherever she goes is money and conceit. Wherever they travel throughout Europe, she feels the same. She wants to go back to Wragby. Even the thought of being with Clifford is more appealing than this shadow of the former Europe.

Connie and Hilda stay in Venice with their father...