Chapter 9 Summary

Almost like obedient children, Colin and Mary proceed up the stairs into the apartment to find Robert waiting for them at the top of the stairs. This time he makes very little show of civility to Mary, but fixes his arm around Colin in a combined gesture of ownership and protectiveness.

Robert says, with some scolding in his voice it seems, that he and Caroline had been expecting Colin and Mary sooner - as per the promise Colin made Caroline on that first evening to come again. In fact, he left a message at Colin and Mary's hotel that very morning. They are, Caroline explains, going on a long trip and wanted to see Colin and Mary before their departure. Colin, ever wary, asks why, but is ignored.

Robert orders Caroline to take Mary inside for some refreshments while he will take Colin...