The chapter describes a genteel neighborhood, Victorian Row, where residents decorate for Christmas with taste and moderation as dictated by the Neighborhood Association.
Emily (Em) and Rodney (Roddy) Harris, an elderly couple living at 93 Ridge Road, have not put up their usual decorations due to their declining health.
Em is in wheelchair due to her severe sciatica, while Roddy struggles with arthritis.
The couple contemplates that they may not host their traditional Christmas gathering due to their ailments but remain hopeful they will feel better soon.
Em experiences a moment of hunger as Roddy prepares dinner, reflecting that it's a good sign of health, and recalls past Christmas parties fondly.
They enjoy a fine dinner prepared with their best tableware and reminisce about the old times while savoring the meal and speaking of people they've known.
Liver is served as the main course by Roddy, who has prepared it with special herbs and garnishes.
As they watch their favorite TV show, 'Haunted Case Files', after dinner, Em finds some relief from her pain, hinting at an unusual connection between their food and their health.
It is subtly implied that the meat served for dinner is human, specifically the liver and brains of a boy named Peter Steinman, which are consumed to alleviate their health issues.
After their meal, Em and Roddy share a dessert made from raspberry sorbet mixed with Peter Steinman’s brains.
Almost two weeks before Christmas, Em seems to have recovered remarkably from her sciatica, hinting that the consumption of the human organs has a rejuvenating effect.
The couple’s health improvements lead to a lighthearted exchange about their conditions and a reflection on their past trip to Australia.
Em and Roddy acknowledge that the young boy was a particularly good source for their rejuvenation, though they are unsure of how long the effects will last.
Survival is clearly a priority for them, as they express contentment with life despite their limitations, suggesting they will continue their cannibalistic practices.
The chapter ends with Em deciding to proceed with the Christmas party now that she is pain-free, while they contemplate the brief newspaper attention the disappearance of their latest victim received.