Cynthia's secret engagement to Mr Preston comes to light. When she tries to break it off, Preston is reluctant to let her go or return her letters. After a visit to London, Cynthia also breaks off her engagement to Roger, who is on an expedition in Africa. Osborne's health decreases quite severely. Fearing his father's reproach, he still cannot tell him of his marriage to a French woman or his having a child.
