Alias Grace

Simon leaves the Governor’s house, appalled by Grace’s story of Mary’s death. He is disgusted by what happened to Mary and upset when he sees Grace being led back to prison. He realizes that the story of memory loss mirrors her claims about the murders, but that there is no one to corroborate her story.

Simon reminisces about the times that he would rummage around in the maids’ quarters. One time he got caught and ended up kissing the girl. This cheers him up, and he forgets about Mary Whitney.

He arrives at Reverend Verringer’s house for dinner and begins the evening by questioning him about possible contacts who can verify Grace’s story. Mrs. Alderman Parkinson moved back to the United States after her husband’s death, so Simon must seek out Grace’s lawyer, Mr. Kenneth MacKenzie. They agree that Susanna Moodie’s account is filled with factual inaccuracies, rendering her opinion useless.

Lydia and her mother arrive for dinner, though Simon did not know they would be there. Lydia is dressed for spring, and though Simon has no interest in marrying her, he refuses to deprive himself of her company. He describes her as food: a “confection” that appears to be sculpted of “whipped cream” (193).