On Sunday morning at Ballard's Mill, Martha Ballard brings breakfast to Ephraim Ballard and the two share a playful, intimate conversation. Ephraim compliments Martha's beauty and quotes Shakespeare, and the scene emphasizes both his return home and the strength of their marriage after recent strain and separation.

Their privacy is interrupted when Barnabas Lambard arrives at the mill. Barnabas first explains that he has come on court business: Judge Wood has opened an inquiry into Joshua Burgess's death, and the Sessions will examine the circumstances when they meet in Hallowell on January twenty-ninth. Barnabas also warns Martha that the other judges are showing increased interest in the accusation against Mr. Foster, a sign that the matter may be gaining legal force.

Barnabas then reveals his second purpose. After formally introducing himself to Ephraim, Barnabas admits that he came because he wants to meet Dolly Ballard. Ephraim challenges him and tries to establish that Dolly is too young for courtship, but Barnabas answers steadily, saying only that he wants to say hello and explaining that he admires Dolly's directness and intelligence.

Martha reads the exchange with amusement and approval, recognizing both Barnabas's nerve and Ephraim's fatherly discomfort. She invites Barnabas to breakfast, and the three walk back to the house together. At the door, Dolly is already waiting, clearly curious and pleased to see Barnabas; as Dolly smiles at him, Martha teases Ephraim about understanding her own father's feelings, while Ephraim must watch his youngest daughter begin a possible romance.