Trying to find a solution to the problem, Penelope suggests the possibility of giving up Tom. “I’ve read of cases where a girl gives up the man that loves her so as to make the other girl happy that the man doesn’t love. That might be done,” she says.
“Your father would think you were a fool,” retorts Mrs. Lapham.
Persis decides to confer with Silas before she reveals the situation to Irene. She sends a note to Silas, telling him to come home early that afternoon.
Analysis
The incapability of romantic women to face real problems is presented in this chapter. Neither Penelope nor her mother know how to handle the situation. Penelope avoids it by unloading it on her mother, while her mother turns to Silas for an answer.
