The first chapter consists of three letters sent by Helen to her sister Margaret. Helen is staying at Howards End as the Wilcoxes’ guest. Helen tells her sister that the Wilcoxes are disappointed that Margaret was not able to join them, as she is taking care of their brother Tibby. Helen provides an account of life at the house. Mrs. Wilcox tends to the garden while the others play sports. The younger son, Paul, has yet to arrive. Helen concludes her letter when she is interrupted by the breakfast gong.

In her next letter, Helen expresses how much she has been enjoying her stay with the Wilcoxes, who appear to be a happy family. Mrs. Wilcox has been very kind, and she is not offended by Mr. Wilcox’s condescending manner.

In the third letter, Helen tells Margaret that she and the younger son, Paul, who has recently arrived, have fallen in love.

Margaret passes the last letter from Helen to her Aunt Juley across the table. She tells her aunt that she only met Mr. and Mrs. Wilcox while she and Helen were traveling in Germany in the spring and did not even know the younger son’s name.