Wynstan kneels by the dying Archbishop Elfric at Canterbury Cathedral. He hopes to be the next archbishop, even though he has health concerns; for example, there is a large lump on his neck. It is thought that a monk named Alphage will be the next archbishop. However, the monks can elect an abbot under the Rule of Saint Benedict. Wynstan argues that an archbishop is essentially an abbot, a semantic trick that could allow them to vote for Wynstan. He hints that he can provide greater comforts than other archbishops allow, appealing to those who dislike extreme self-denial. He then flatters Treasurer Sigefryth and tells him a treasurer should have more say over how money is spent.

Ragna’s four boys are healthy. While not raising them, she handles some of the administrative work that bores Wigelm. Over the past two years, she has only hated him more. Wigelm keeps a concubine named Meganthryth on the property and forbids Ragna from teaching Alain to read, saying that it is for women and priests.

Agnes is dying of syphilis, contracted from Wynstan, and wants to beg Ragna’s forgiveness. She has what is called “Whore’s leprosy,” which she contracted from Wynstan.