Chapter 12 Summary

Ursula is finishing up her schooling. She forms a bond with one of her teachers, Winifred Inger. Ursula's schoolgirl crush makes her excited to take classes with Miss Inger. They have a physical encounter during a swimming class. Miss Inger invites Ursula to tea. She tells her stories about prostitutes and women who die in childbirth. The two bathe naked together. Miss Inger introduces her to many new ideas, including secular humanism and feminism. Ursula is not sure what to think of her friendship. She is proud that such an interesting woman wants to spend time with her, but she is also concerned that Miss Inger will try to possess her and keep her from being independent.

Ursula begins to want some freedom from Miss Inger, so Miss Inger leaves for London to preserve the relationship. Ursula invites her to visit her at...