Chapter 4 Summary

Au Bonheur des Dames is ready for the big winter sale. Denise arrives in her department for her first day of work in time to hear the salesgirls Clara and Marguerite arguing about who is first. When Denise's turn comes, the customer is a regular, and Madame Aurélie, the buyer, will not let her make the sale. Denise holds back her tears while she does the work assigned to her, wondering how she will make enough money for Pépé and Jean if they do not let her sell. Mouret waits in the hall, nervous that no one will come to the sale. As, he watches the crowds slowly swell, the silk department employees demonstrate their fierce competition and rivalry for sales and sexual conquests.

Madame Desforges comes to the sale, illustrating the manner of a distinguished woman. She joins other customers...