Summary

In the nineteenth century timeframe, Polly opens the family dinner conversation with her disappointment in finally seeing the president in person earlier in the day around town. Although she captivates the dinner, Thatcher finds himself only able to think about the miscarriage Rose suffered and their consistent disappointment in their quest to become parents. The conversation continues, touching upon town gossip as well.

Later in the afternoon, Rose mentions to Thatcher that Polly has been maturing, and the dressmaker must begin working on corsets and bustles for her. Thatcher, however, would like to discuss the state of the house instead and find a more practical use for their limited funds. He relays that a builder has proposed an expensive repair plan. Rose’s mother, Aurelia, believes the builder to be dishonest, but Thatcher insists that the work cannot be ignored. Flashing forward in...