Chapters 6-10 Summary

Mlle La Rue, one of Du Pont's teachers, flirts at church, is invited to a "cousin's" house for a party, and brings Charlotte, one of her favorites. On the way out, they run into John Montraville, who hands Charlotte the note. She is disgusted by the lewd evening. La Rue calls Charlotte a prude and insists that she read the note; there is no danger, since John is going to America but she can let him go knowing that he will be missed. La Rue gets evil pleasure from watching Charlotte's emotions change. Meanwhile, the Temples plan a surprise birthday party for grateful, affectionate Charlotte.

Charlotte worries about the meeting but cannot talk to Du Pont for fear of getting La Rue fired. Each time she rereads the note, it sinks deeper into her heart. She wants to get it over...