Chapter 13 Summary

For a while, Miranda seems to be happy in her marriage to Nicholas, and because he acts like the husband she hoped he would be most of the time, she begins to flourish. He also takes on the task of mentoring her for her role as Mrs. Van Ryn by supplying her with a lavish wardrobe, making sure that she is familiar with the news of the day, taking her to cultural events, and supervising her reading.

Since Miranda realizes that she has a great deal to learn she appreciates what Nicholas is doing and never questions his opinions. One notable exception is the time when he tells her that he is an atheist, commenting that "there is no god but one's self", and she refuses to accept what he says. Immediately, Nicholas treats her roughly and then, in a sudden shift of...