Part 2, Chapter 14 Summary

Peter admits to himself and Aldred that he is happy in China. He is reluctant to give up the idea of a relationship and continues to explore one with Rita Xavier, whom he happens to meet in a café one day, while he is on his way to visit his tailor. They agree to meet at a local theatre after his errand, but upon discovering that his tailor's child is ill, Peter seeks Rita's assistance to find help. Rita is of Asian descent and possessed of a more cynical attitude than either Aldred or Peter. Believing the cause to be fruitless, Rita responds in a manner that puts Exley off. The only assistance Peter succeeds in finding is someone who tells him he must carry the child to the hospital, as medical services cannot come to the child. Peter discerns...