Summary

Book 5, Chapter 4: Sylvia comes with Bendrix to Sarah’s funeral, and Bendrix considers taking Sylvia as a lover, taking her from Waterbury, in revenge for Sarah’s death and Waterbury’s fatuousness. He offers to dine with her, and asks her to break her date with Waterbury.

Sylvia offers to leave the funeral, but Bendrix likes having her there. He sees Parkis, who comes out of respect for Sarah’s religiousness. Parkis points out Dunstan to Bendrix, and Bendrix regrets involving Sylvia in his life. He prays to Sarah to get him out of it.

Sarah’s mother seems to answer Bendrix’ call, and when she tries to touch Bendrix for money, he offers to dine with her, which allows him to break his date with Sylvia. Drinking Chianti with Sarah’s mother, Bendrix finds that everything is crowded with Sarah—the wine has...