In which the Earl of Glenallan listens with a heavy heart to the repentant Elspeth Cheyne, who reveals the dark family secrets and bitter enmities surrounding Eveline Neville, weaving a tale of hidden marriage, forbidden love, and dreadful consequences. Amidst sorrow and remorse, the nobleman confronts painful truths and the relentless burden of guilt, while the old woman, worn by her own torments, seeks forgiveness from Heaven rather than man.