The Well of Loneliness

Stephen’s third novel is so well-received she becomes “famous.” Even Violet Antrim writes to her, trying to hobnob with her former enemy. Stephen attributes her success to the advice of Puddle, who sends Stephen a letter of hearty congratulations.

Stephen and Mary travel to Italy in the summer. Stephen is famous even in Italy, and many people try to befriend her, including the Lady Massey and her daughter Agnes. They invite Stephen and Mary everywhere, including to their house for Christmas. Mary is very excited about this prospect and talks about it constantly. Stephen is, at least on an unconscious level, a bit more hesitant, as she is unsure what the Masseys think of her and Mary’s relationship.

They spend a lot of time with the Masseys, inviting them to dinner and sending them frequent gifts. Lady Massey is constantly discussing her upcoming Christmas party, an event Stephen dreads and Mary anticipates. Right before the Christmas party, Lady Massey writes and retracts her invitation. She says she has heard “rumors” about Stephen and Mary’s relationship and as such must protect both her daughter and her reputation from their influence. She effectively ends their friendship in the letter. Stephen hopes to hide the letter from Mary, but Mary demands to see it.