Book Second: Chapters III-IV Summary

Merton Densher works for a London newspaper and is a pleasant and educated young man without great ambition. He and Kate have been seeing one another regularly, having met at a party. The relationship is not formalized, however, until Densher begins to call upon Aunt Maud, as is the socially appropriate method in early twentieth century London. Though Maud is cordial, it is clear to Kate that her aunt is not in favor of this relationship due to Densher's lack of socioeconomic status. For his part, Densher realizes that he does not have sufficient income to support himself and a wife, though he is certainly willing to put more effort into career advancement. Ultimately, Densher proposes marriage, a proposal Kate accepts, so long as he obtains Aunt Maud's approval.

Maud is calm and benevolent throughout chapter four...