Summary

During the course of Waythorn and Haskett’s conversation, Waythorn learns notable details about Haskett’s life. Haskett is a very devoted father. He even shut down his profitable business upstate, moved to New York City, and took a relatively low-paying job, all in order to be closer to Lily. Waythorn knows that Alice was the one who initiated the divorce, but he does not know any substantial details about Alice and Haskett’s marital rapport. Later, when Waythorn informs Alice of Haskett’s request (regarding Lily’s education) Alice grows slightly angry. She expresses the urge to ignore Haskett’s request, but Waythorn points out that Haskett does have specific legal rights in this case. Haskett realizes that Alice might have refused similar requests by Haskett in the past. Mr. Waythorn takes Haskett’s side and fires the governess. Alice is quite upset...