Washington Square

At a family gathering, Dr. Sloper watches Morris corner Catherine on a sofa, noting how painfully aware she is of her father's disapproval. The doctor feels a moment of sympathy, wondering if he's being too harsh, but decides to test Morris directly. In their conversation, Morris claims he's looking for honest work to support his widowed sister and her children, whom he supposedly tutors. But his answers feel rehearsed, and when the doctor hints at opportunities that would require leaving New York, Morris quickly explains he can't abandon his family responsibilities. Dr. Sloper sees through the performance—Morris is too smooth, too prepared with noble-sounding excuses. The doctor decides to investigate further by meeting Morris's sister to verify his claims about supporting her children. Meanwhile, Morris tells Catherine that her father has insulted him by mocking his poverty, and he can no longer visit their house in good conscience. He pressures Catherine to meet him secretly in Washington Square, playing on her guilt and sympathy. Though Catherine initially resists, suggesting he come to the house instead, Morris's emotional manipulation works. He gets what he wants—a private meeting away from her father's watchful eye. The chapter reveals how predators use manufactured crises and appeals to loyalty to isolate their targets from protective influences.