Chapter 17 Summary

This chapter starts with Elizabeth-Jane questioning why her stepfather was so upset about seeing her dance with Farfrae. She learns that her station as the mayor's stepdaughter means that she should not dance among the common folk, and she is embarrassed that she did not know this. She decides to leave the party, being accompanied on her walk by Farfrae. He tells her that he plans to leave town, and she notes that she wishes he would stay. He promises to think this over, and notes that he would have asked her to marry him if he had more money.

The next day Elizabeth-Jane is sad when she thinks Farfrae is leaving. She soon learns, however, that Farfrae has decided to stay in Casterbridge and will compete against Michael in business. Elizabeth-Jane is happy about this, but Michael becomes angry and tells her...