Chapter 5 Summary

The night after the ball, Mr. Stillerton Jackson dines at the Archer's house with Newland, Mrs. Archer, and Janey, Newland's sister. Mr. Jackson is known as a good storyteller and gossip. He is also the person one invited to dinner, when they wanted to know the inner goings of society. Inevitably, the talk turns to the arrival of Ellen Olenska. They talk about the fact that it looks as if the Mingotts and Wellands are putting on a brave, united front, as to squash any further negative comments. Mrs. Archer does not sympathize with Ellen's situation and believes her to be in very bad taste. Mr. Jackson tells them that Ellen plans to find a house in town. Janey heard that Ellen plans to get a divorce. Newland speaks up by saying that he agrees that she should get a divorce. This shocks...