Resigned outwardly but seething inwardly, Marguerite recalls her sister Claire's patient suffering as a model she cannot follow, instead wishing illness or accident upon Roberval. While Roberval spends his days in port overseeing provisions and interviewing the desperate debtor-colonists who will sail with them, Damienne warns Marguerite to guard her tongue.

When Roberval next summons Marguerite, she expects rebuke but receives unexpected generosity. He greets her cordially and announces that she and Damienne shall have new clothes, commissioning shoes, gowns, kidskin gloves, and a squirrel-lined cloak. Marguerite recognizes this as the largesse of a man who believes he has broken her.

In May, Roberval prepares for departure by selling off his silver, goblets, damasks, and carpets. At their final meeting in the emptied house, he abruptly orders Marguerite to have her trunks packed and loaded that very day, telling her they will board the next morning and await favorable wind. He cheerfully estimates an eight-week voyage, barring calm seas or Spanish attack. When Marguerite tries to protest the haste, the secretary's slight head-shake silences her.

Damienne grimly oversees the packing of linens, gowns, and the wrapped virginal. The next morning they walk to the pier; Marguerite notes that Alys has gone off to marry, possibly funded by Marguerite's own betrayal-money. A small boat rows them out to the ships. Damienne, terrified of the sea, prays and refuses to look, while Marguerite gazes in awe and fear at the vessels.

Boarding the largest ship, Anne, proves harrowing. Marguerite climbs up first, then coaxes the paralyzed Damienne to open her eyes and reach for her hand. After two failed attempts, the men finally heave Damienne onto the deck. Clinging together as the ship rolls beneath them, Damienne, despite her terror, affirms that she would not leave Marguerite.