- When Archer returns to New York City his sister tells him that Countess Olenska called on his mother while he was away.
- A couple of days later Archer heads over to Mrs. Manson Mingott's. He asks her to convince the Wellands to let Archer marry May sooner rather than later.
- While he is talking to Mrs. Mingott, Madame Olenska enters. She asks Mrs. Mingott to help Archer convince the Wellands to let him marry May posthaste.
- As Archer leaves, he and Madame Olenska make plans to meet the next night.
- The next night, around half-past eight, Archer arrives at Madame Olenska's.
- She's not in her drawing room. Instead, he sees his friend Ned Winsett, Marchioness Manson, and Dr. Agathon Carver, a spiritualist (i.e. guy who talks to dead people). Archer is not impressed with Dr. Carver.
- They admire the roses and pansies sent by Julius Beaufort.
- After Winsett and Dr. Carver leave, the Marchioness informs Archer that the Count has written, pleading for Madame Olenska to return to him. The Marchioness asks Archer for his help. Archer refuses.