Edwin finds Victoria too much like England without actually being England, and feels it’s a far-distant simulation.
Edwin witnesses his companion, Thomas, try to establish good relations with the English locals, but they fail to accept him fully into their society.
Edwin stands aloof from these interactions and contemplates the city and its people, feeling uncomfortable and restless.
Gentlemen at the Union Club discuss the lack of opportunity back in England. All these men are second sons, who will inherit nothing. Edwin proposes a toast to exile and to building a new future.
Thomas reveals to Edwin his intentions of setting up in a timber company in Vancouver Island, aiming to leave a mark on the wilderness.
Edwin has conflicting feelings about the idea of disappearing into the wilderness as they boat up Vancouver Island.
On the boat, Thomas and Edwin keep mostly to themselves, with Thomas speaking dismissively about those he views as complacent in Victoria.
They arrive at the small settlement of Caiette in the early evening, and both secure rooms in the local boardinghouse.
Thomas leaves for the logging camp while Edwin settles into a comfortable, isolated lifestyle, sketching, reading, and playing chess with other boarders.
Edwin is captivated by the beauty of Caiette, enjoying the sense of order in playing chess, and unsure of what he is waiting for next.