Mr. Gilmore, the family lawyer, comes to draw up the marriage
settlement. He sends a copy of the warning letter to Sir Percival asking for an
explanation. Walter leaves Limmeridge House. Laura is very unhappy as she is
in love with Walter.
Sir Percival Glyde comes to Limmeridge House and explains that Anne’s
mother used to be his loyal servant. To thank her, he paid for her daughter
Anne, who has mental problems, to be placed in an asylum. Marian writes
a letter to Mrs. Catherick and receives confirmation that this is true. After that
Laura agrees to marry Sir Percival, as she does not want to break her promise
to her late father.
When discussing the marriage settlement, Sir Percival insists on having
his wife’s money in case of her death. Mr. Gilmore does not like the idea.
As Laura is not twenty-one yet, he visits her uncle, Mr. Fairlie, to discuss it. But
Mr. Fairlie agrees to Sir Percival’s claims.
Walter leaves for Central America for eighteen months. Laura’s wedding
date is decided – 22 December– in four weeks’ time. Sir Percival tries to find
Anne Catherick, but she is gone. Sir Percival and Laura get married and leave
for Italy.
Six months later Marian comes to Blackwater Park, Sir Percival’s house,
where she learns that Mrs. Catherick has secretly visited to find out any news
about her daughter. Marian decides to visit Mrs. Catherick.
Sir Percival and Laura come from Italy with Count Fosco, Sir Percival’s
friend. Laura is very unhappy, it’s clear now that her husband married her for
her money only. To clear out his debts he needs to obtain his wife’s money. He
also has a terrible secret that the ‘woman in white’ knows. Marian overhears
a conversation and tells Laura about it.
Sir Percival learns about Mrs. Catherick’s visit which makes him very
angry. He tries to make Laura sign some document about her money but fails.
Outraged, Sir Percival leaves Blackwater Park.