The Age of Innocence Book 2 Chapter 32

In which a genteel gathering at the van der Luydens’ home explores the delicate fissures of high society, notably stirred by the whisper of imprudent visits and social expectations, while the grand Opera provides a silent stage for private contemplation. Mr. Archer, caught between convention and emotion, seeks a moment of candour with his wife amid the lingering shadows cast by an absent cousin’s impending departure.