Nikhil, pondering the nature of what a wife truly is, calls into question his own identity as a husband. He recognizes that he is not expressive. He feels practically nothing but a vague self-pity. He views himself as passive, unable to do anything but receive. It is clear to him that Bimala is languishing because he is not present in any real way. He remembers they spent their first two married years apart while he was in Calcutta. Seven more years have passed. Now he believes he is starting the next phase of his life. He goes into their bedroom to get a book and look at her clothes and jewels. When she enters behind him, he says he is only there to get Amiel’s journal. He leaves, feeling like an invader in his own home.

While Nikhil is outside, Panchu, a  neighbor of lower status, approaches him with a basket of nuts. Nikhil offers him money, but Panchu says the nuts are repayment for  nuts he once stole from Nikhil’s garden. This show of integrity lightens Nikhil’s heart. Panchu toils to provide a meager living for his family—his refusal to accept charity is impressive.