Richard is all set to meet up with Matt to inform him of his plans to marry Dolly but Dolly intervenes and strikes a deal with him. Dolly promises Richard that if he doesn't meet up with Matt, then she will meet him in the New Year to discuss the future. Richard agrees and a date is set for the two of them to meet in January at Brassington. That evening the play takes place and Matt is one of the stars of the proceedings, but despite this Dolly can't bear to watch despite Annie's pleas. She needs time to go away and think about what she wants. At the end of the play, Henry comes out to take Dolly down to Hotten for her bus.