XI-XV Summary

Before they go to bed, the Hales talk about Mr. Thornton. Mr. Hales states his surprise that his daughter did not leave the room when Mr. Thornton started talking about his poorer days. Margaret says she rather liked his tale, as it was unpretentious and refreshingly honest. However, she says she does not like Mr. Thornton as a person. The next day Margaret goes for a walk and meets Bessie. Bessie states her annoyance that Margaret did not come and visit as she promised. However her mood soon brightens when Margaret offers to escort her to Besie's house. Inside the house, Bessie talks about her impending death. Margaret comforts her, talking about religion. Nicolas enters the room and says he does not want his daughter preached to. He says people in Milton do not believe in God, but only in what they can...