The Transit of Venus

Caro passes another examination at the government office and is able to move to a new apartment with high ceilings. From the window she sees a tall, broad man with a walking stick who will turn out to be American Adam Vail.

When she goes to work that day, there is a deputation from South America. Four men are there to plead acquittal from execution. The man from across the street, Adam Vail, has taken up the men’s cause. However, the British authorities decree they are to be executed.

Adam asks Caro to accompany him, and they go to a restaurant and to his hotel. Adam reveals that he has an adolescent daughter who hates him because she blames him for her mother’s suicide. Adam’s wife reminds Caro of Dora, who is always threatening to kill herself. Caro is attracted to Adam’s confidence and his bold professions; he says he will protect her and take her to the Lipari islands. When he asks Caro if someone else is in love with her, she reports that “there’s been a cancellation” (187). They declare their interest and become lovers.