Fanny again refuses Henry’s proposal, but he remains confident he can change her mind. Henry’s optimism leads Sir Thomas to believe the marriage is not a lost cause. Resolving not to interfere, he tells Fanny she must see Henry when he calls at Mansfield Park, but he will not pressure her to accept his proposal. However, he shares the news of Henry’s intentions with his wife and Mrs. Norris. Lady Bertram is impressed by Fanny’s conquest. She congratulates her niece, claiming all young women have a “duty” to marry well when the opportunity presents itself. Mrs. Norris is furious that Henry chose Fanny over Julia.

Edmund returns to Mansfield Park, now a clergyman. He is pleasantly surprised when Mary greets him warmly and is also pleased to hear of Henry’s proposal to Fanny. He believes that Henry’s mistake was to scare Fanny with a sudden declaration of love instead of pursuing her more gradually.

Henry dines at Mansfield Park and, afterward, skillfully reads aloud from Shakespeare. Henry and Edmund discuss the importance of public-speaking skills when delivering sermons. Henry claims he has sometimes wished to be a clergyman but could only perform the role in London, where the congregation would appreciate him.