Drawing instructor Walter Hartright introduces the coming narrative as involving “Woman’s patience” and “Man’s resolution” (3). Because the law is too often beholden to monetary interests, the reader must instead judge the evidence Walter presents. Walter will narrate the events he observed directly, while others will take over the story during periods when he was not present.

It is the last day of July, and Walter’s financial situation is poor. Walter has been dividing his time between his chambers in town and his mother’s cottage in Hampstead, where his sister also lives. His father is deceased.

When Walter arrives at his mother’s house, his friend Professor Pesca opens the door. Pesca is an Italian who had to leave his country for unspecified political reasons. Walter once saved Pesca from drowning, which has earned him Pesca’s lifelong gratitude. It is Walter’s friendship with Pesca that indirectly leads to the novel’s events.

Pesca excitedly reveals to Walter and his family that he has recommended Walter for a position as a drawing master teaching two young women. He gives Walter the particulars: The employer is Frederick Fairlie, and the job is for four months at Limmeridge House in Cumberland.