The Enchanted April

Mr. Briggs has an enjoyable tea with the group, during which he is particularly solicitous to Mrs. Arbuthnot. Mrs. Fisher seems to have blossomed, and she herself has begun to think of her transformation as “budding.” She laughs and smiles for the first time, and her change does not go unnoticed by the group. Mrs. Wilkins is so moved by Mrs. Fisher’s newfound good nature that she kisses her on the cheek.

Mrs. Fisher is taken aback but reflects with pleasure that perhaps Mrs. Wilkins actually has liked her all along. Although Mr. Briggs had previously been sure upon arrival that he would like to make Mrs. Arbuthnot (whom he presumed was a widow) his wife, he falls instantly under Caroline’s spell when he sees her.

Mr. Briggs is obviously smitten with Lady Caroline and does his best to give her as much attention as possible. She is used to men falling for her in this manner, and she finds it distasteful. Men like Mr. Briggs are a large part of why she chose to escape to Italy in the company of strangers for an entire week. She was so pleased when Mellersh did not act in this manner, but now she feels her vacation is ruined.