Summary

After lunch, Rachel promises to stay for tea later that afternoon. This leaves her with an awkward amount of time, during which she does not have enough time to go home and also does not have much to do around the hotel, as everyone has retreated to their rooms. Evelyn notices Rachel aimlessly reading a magazine and decides to invite her to her room. Once inside, Evelyn tries to interest Rachel in the gossip about her proposals. Rachel is distracted and still frustrated with the church service she has just attended. She is very blunt with Evelyn. She says, "Somebody's proposed to you," and when Evelyn acts surprised and asks if she looks like she has had a proposal, Rachel remarks, "You look as if you had them every day" (311). Rachel is overtaken by the sudden wish to explore the hotel and leaves...