- Susan and Elizabeth-Jane move into a cottage toward the edge of town, just as she and Henchard had planned.
- Once they've moved in, Henchard starts visiting regularly.
- Townspeople start gossiping about it – they can't imagine what Henchard sees in Susan, since she's so thin and worn.
- They talk about the upcoming marriage between their mayor and the widow Mrs. Newson as though it's a sure thing.