In this chapter, we are introduced to the young protagonist, Eliot, and his mother, Sophie. Eliot tells Eliot that his mother and father have come to visit his aunt and uncle, and that Eliot's aunt has invited his father and mother to dinner. Eliot is upset that his parents have not come to pick him up yet, but he is comforted by the fact that his cousin, the duke, is also coming to visit. He tells Eliot to learn from his cousin and to work harder in school because the competition for his father's affections is getting more intense.