Part 1 Chapter 2 Summary

George Fleury and his sister Miriam arrive in Calcutta before continuing on to Krishnapur. The British residents in the area are glad to meet the new arrivals from England, since the cold season becomes tiring and their social circle is limited. Fleury and Miriam meet a host of characters whom they will come to know a great deal better as the novel progresses: Louise Dunstaple, Dr. Dunstaple, and Mr. Hopkins, whose wife is departing for England. Harry Dunstaple has stayed behind in Krishnapur.

At the Dunstaple house, the doctor takes Fleury into his confidence, and the older man is jovial and friendly. However, when the doctor knocks over a vase, he lets the blame fall on Fleury as the ladies enter the room. A picnic is suggested, and the Dunstaples and their guests go to the Botanical Gardens, where they happen...