Thursday, January 16—Saturday January 18, 1777
- To say that Lady Seymour isn't doing well is an understatement. Her body has completely lost the ability to move. Isabel thinks of how Lady Seymour is a prisoner in her own body, just as she is enslaved to the Locktons and Curzon is locked in the British prison.
- Meanwhile, plans for the ball are in full swing, from Madam's gown and makeup to preparation for dancing, fireworks, and an enormous banquet.
- Isabel finally finishes reading Common Sense and sees why it's so dangerous. She feels empowered by its message that all people are created equal and do not deserve to be ruled over—or owned. If America could break away and make its freedom, she should be able to do it, too. The thought was unimaginable before she read the book, but she's beginning to believe it.
- One morning, Isabel goes to Captain Morse, who asks her to take a penny to another American captain, Farrar. The two made a bet that the British would not hold the birthday celebration out of fear of an American attack, and Morse obviously lost. Isabel takes the penny to Captain Farrar, who asks her to deliver a message from headquarters to Captain Morse. It's extremely important and she's to be quick about it.
- Before delivering the message, though, she has to stop back at the Locktons and make an appearance since she's been gone for a while.
- She returns to find Madam standing in the doorway holding a riding crop, furious at Isabel. It seems Isabel's secret is out. Gulp.