The governor of Maine comes to Apple Island to see the community for himself. Matthew makes proposals to increase the standard of living and build a connection with the mainland. While the governor is receptive, the committee disagrees, asserting that none of Matthew’s proposals will cure impure blood. As they leave, one committee member gives Matthew a telegraph from Hale, containing news of Ethan’s removal from the estate and subsequent disappearance.

Esther and Eha watch Matthew approach ominously. When he arrives, Esther sees that he is devastated. Matthew realizes that Esther knew why he picked Ethan to leave and that she never expected to see him again. Matthew tells them that Ethan left the Hale estate and that they need to vacate the island.

Timothy Whitcomb, a local man who hates those on the island, delivers the eviction notices. Iris slaps Timothy. Annie, however, takes the papers and stows them away. The Larks, none of whom can read, receive their papers in confusion. They will become wards of the State School for the Feebleminded. Finally, when the Honeys receive the notice, Esther goes to her bluff, and Eha sits and looks at his cabin.

Zachary burns his eviction notice, raging at the mainland’s condemnation of his way of life.