In which Mr. Melbury wrestles with his conflicting feelings about his daughter Grace’s promise to Giles Winterborne, contending with the changes her genteel upbringing and newfound associations have wrought in her conduct and prospects. Meanwhile, Giles seeks to reaffirm his place in Grace’s regard by presenting a horse as a symbol of thoughtful consideration, while the quiet rhythms of Hintock life begin to soften the sharpness of social divides.