Pages 683 through 987 Summary

In the chapter titled "1892-1893," the engagements of Julia and Johnny and of Gilbert and Elsa are announced. Julia remains reticent of any sexual advances by Johnny. As the club reconvenes in the fall, Julia is absent because of pregnancy. Julia, Elsa and Charlotte Bonner, who has recently graduated with a bachelor's degree, have been added to the club's membership. Arianna dies and Ben, who had been in town only to see her, leaves quietly. Julia gives birth to a son, Alexander Tucker Gordon, and tells Johnny she'll never have another child.

In the chapter titled "1894-1895," Lavinia Gardiner breaks a rib and develops pneumonia but survives. Both the Gardiner sisters are showing overt signs of senility, refusing to bathe regularly and living in squalor in their part of the house. They never go out except for club meetings and have...