
You reached Richard Boxall's counting-house late enough for every punctual clerk to witness the failure. Your father trusted me with your start, Thomas; punctuality is the portion you must supply. You step into this one-chapter preview with Lucy Burton at the center, where choices turn on the people, promises, and pressure already in the room. The kiss remained concealed, while its memory continued to govern your face. The chapter closes on a continuation question rather than resolving the novel's larger arc.
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