Summary

In Chapter 9, Sophia and Maria giggle together as they head for the market. Sophia is happy to be away from the house she shares with Cornelis. It seems cold there no matter how much the fires are stoked. Although she is grateful for being taken away from the poverty of her home situation, Sophia feels as if she is in prison in her life with her elderly husband. She envies Maria her freedom and the youth she feels.

In the market square Sophia’s spirits rise as she watches the animals and people there, and listens to the noise. As the sun is covered by a cloud, Sophia hears the tolling of the bells and believes the bell is calling her to repent. She sees everything that is ugly about the town. She imagines the man who sells them parsnips is leering at...