Townsend continues to call upon Catherine, but Catherine does not talk about his visits to her father. Dr. Sloper suspects the visits, but he does not ask Catherine about them directly. When he asks Mrs. Penniman to tell him how often Townsend comes to the house, she protests that she cannot betray Townsend’s confidence. Mrs. Penniman claims that Townsend interests her primarily because of his misfortunes. She tells Dr. Sloper she believes Townsend is sincere in his admiration for Catherine.

Mrs. Penniman says that Townsend confessed that he was somewhat wild in his youth and that he is now alone in the world, having left behind his false, deceptive friends. She suggests that Townsend would speak to Dr. Sloper about both his past and his feelings for Catherine if Dr. Sloper would receive him with more kindness. When Mrs. Penniman tells Dr. Sloper that Townsend is still looking hard for a job, Dr. Sloper suggests that Townsend is seeking a position in his front parlor through a connection with his weak-minded daughter and her fortune.

The Slopers and Mrs. Penniman spend Sunday evening at Mrs. Almond’s, as is their custom. Townsend, too, comes, and Dr.