In which Mr. Edward Waverley reflects upon the affections and prospects of two ladies, Rose Bradwardine and Flora Mac-Ivor, whilst attending a lively social gathering where poetry and music vie for favour amid discourse on the whims of love. The company engages in spirited debate over Shakespeare’s "Romeo and Juliet," contemplating the nature of true constancy in affection, which leaves Edward pondering the uncertain tides of the heart and his own intentions.