The Essex Serpent

Autumn arrives in Aldwinter. The Serpent has been spotted elsewhere on the estuary. Naomi is still missing; it is assumed the Serpent took her. Garrett continues to recover, helped by Spencer. Garrett has memorized Cora’s letter. Martha writes to Spencer asking for updates on the political movements and asks for help for Burton, who is about to be kicked out of his home. The Ransome children have grown “nearly as plump as Charles” (237); one night, Katherine finds the brother’s weeping in their sister’s arms. Cora remains in the hotel she loathes and has been advised not to visit Garrett. Cora is sulking and Martha does not know how to help. Cora reads Will’s letters but does not know how to reply. Cora tries “to turn all her unused affection on Francis” (237) but worries that he is sorry for her or finds her amusing. Martha loses her temper and accuses Cora of wanting courtiers, rather than “friends or lovers” (238). Will is lost for words in front of his congregation, who are beginning to lose trust in their parson. He wavers back and forth between Cora and Stella, lacking direction. Stella’s condition worsens but, “of them all, only Stella is happy” (239).