Distraught, destitute, and alone, Irene returns to Soames for one last night, then deserts him for good. Four years later, Jolyon and his family have settled into the house at Robin Hill. While the others are in Spain, Old Jo comes upon a melancholy Irene, sitting in the copse and remembering her love for Bosinney. A gentle friendship blooms between the old man and the fallen woman. Jolyon dies peacefully, but not before leaving a surprise in his will: a bequest for Irene.