In which Mr. Glossin, armed with the news of Mrs. Margaret Bertram's death and a letter concerning her estate, visits Woodbourne with cautious intent to inform Miss Bertram, only to meet cold suspicion and guarded politeness from Colonel Mannering and others present. Meanwhile, Colonel Mannering and his agents contemplate the validity of a secret settlement favouring Lucy Bertram and the prudent course to secure her interests amid these uncertain tidings.