The chapter opens with a description of the dinner that has been ordered by the Governess. The Governess is surprised to find that the food has not yet been served. She apologizes for the delay and says that she is still in love with Hongyo, but that she cannot bear to let him go. She tells him that she has decided to break off their relationship because she does not yet have enough money to buy a proper ship for Hongyo. She asks him if he has told her about the break-up. He says that he has, but he does not know how to tell her how to react to the news. He tells her that he is on his way home with the book and that he will rescind the offer of a ship. He asks her if she is upset at all, and she says she is not. She says she cares so much for him and that she will see him later.