The Blithedale Romance | Chapter 4 Summary

Huddled before the warmth of the hearth fire that is "somewhat too abundant", the group gathers together, fieldhands, handmaidens, and the visitors to Blithedale.  Everyone is friendly, but rather awkward - "it (is) the first practical trial of (their) theories of equal brotherhood and sisterhood".  Coverdale, in his mind, questions the motivations of those present, wondering if it had been by necessity rather than by noble choice, if those present "would so quietly have taken (their) places among these good people".

As expected, Hollingsworth soon arrives, but with a mysterious guest, "a slim and unsubstantial girl".  Hollingsworth tells the group that he does not know the girl; an old man brought her to him and begged him to bring her with him to Blithedale.  Understanding that the girl must have friends here, Hollingsworth obliged.

The girl is pitiable, dressed "in a poor, but decent gown" and with a demeanor that is "depressed and sad".  From the moment she enters the room, she has eyes only for Zenobia, who is understandably taken aback.  The girl says her name is Priscilla, and will not reveal her surname.  Inexplicably pleading, she asks "only that (Zenobia) shelter (her)...that she will let (her) be always near her".

The group is at a loss as to what to do about Priscilla.  Finally, Silas Foster very reasonably suggests that they let the girl stay as long as she likes, working and sharing like the rest of the company, and "in a week or two, she'll begin to look like a creature of this world".