The Essex Serpent

Spencer writes to Charles, stating that he wants to use his wealth to address London’s social housing crisis. Cora writes to Stella, thanking her for dinner and inviting her to Colchester. She also encloses “a note for the good Reverend” (109) and a leaflet that she hopes he will “find interesting” (109): a copy of the “original pamphlet warning of a flying Serpent” (110). Will replies, thanking her. At the end of April, Cora, Martha, and Francis move into a “grey house beside Aldwinter common” (112). Cora is more determined than ever to find the Serpent. Francis approves of the move and feels as though he has grown up in recent months.

Garrett is summoned to a medical emergency by Sister Maureen Fry, who sees Garrett as a proxy for her own “disruptive fierce ambition” (114). A man has been stabbed in the heart and may be a viable candidate for Garrett’s ground-breaking surgery. On older surgeon named Rollings tries to ward Garrett away and allow the patient to die in peace, but Garrett will not be dissuaded, and he preps for surgery. Garrett examines the patient and talks to the patient’s mother, seeking permission to perform his experimental surgery. Spencer blocks the door to keep out the meddling administrators.