As soon as the governess sees young Miles, she thinks him to possess the same exceptional qualities, with the “same positive fragrance of purity” that characterizes young Flora. She soon lets Mrs. Grose know that Miles’ dismissal must have been a cruel charge. Furthermore, she has decided to ignore the letter and will not even write to the boy’s uncle about the incident.
In the first weeks of her duties, the children are wonderful; “they were of a gentleness so extraordinary.” But in spite of the pleasure the governess has in the presence of the two children, she still treasures her free time, which falls late in the afternoon, between daylight and darkness. She often strolls through the grounds and meditates on the beauty of her surroundings. Sometimes, she thinks that it would be charming to suddenly meet someone on the path who would stand before her “and smile and approve.” In fact, she wishes her employer could know how much she enjoys the place and how well she is executing her duties.
One evening during her stroll, she does perceive the figure of a strange man on top of one of the old towers of the house. He appears rather indistinct, but she is aware that he keeps his eyes on her. She feels rather disturbed without knowing why.
