Jamie, Claire, Ian, Rachel, and Janet arrive at Fraser’s Ridge. They are met by Mr. Wemyss, his grandson Rodney, and Adso, Claire’s cat.

The Big House burned down before Jamie and Claire left, so the family stays with friends in three separate houses until Jamie can rebuild. Claire performs minor surgery on Fanny’s tongue, which will allow Fanny to speak normally.

Jamie leaves for Salem while the rest of the family takes a trip to Beardsley’s trading post. Ian encounters Herman and Trask Wurm, two Dutch orphans whom Ian rescued years ago and who are employed as bouncers for Mrs. Sylvia, a brothel madam. Remembering his promise to Rachel, Ian warns her that he had sex with Mrs. Sylvia years ago before introducing her.

Claire sees one of the men who abducted and raped her five years ago. She follows him unobserved, attempting to sort through the feelings he engenders. She decides she is no longer afraid of him.