wants to discover if they have laid their eggs; however, the child ventures so far as to be on Heathcliff's land. When he learns from Nellie who the girl is, he coerces them to come to his home and tells Cathy see can meet his son. When she sees Linton, she does not recognize him as he has grown much taller; however, when she is told who he is, she is elated. But, the frail Linton does not want to go outdoors with Cathy, so Heathcliff calls Hareton in and the two cousins venture out around the farm. As Hareton seems to be studying his familiar landscape,

Catherine took a sly look at him, expressing small admiration. She then turned her attention to seeking out objects of amusement for herself, and tripped merrily on, lilting a tune to supply the lack of conversation.

When weak little Linton finally summons enough energy to join the children outside, Catherine has asked Hareton the meaning of the inscription over the door, but he tells her he cannot read. Linton laughs and informs Miss Cathy that Hareton has not bothered to learn his letters. "Could you believe in the existence of such a colossal dunce?" Cathy wonders if Hareton is mentally handicapped or simply illiterate, and Linton replies there is nothing wrong but his lack of desire to learn. This response is difficult for the refined Cathy to even understand. While the children are outside, Heathcliff delights in telling Nellie of his exploitation of the boys for his own ends. Thus it becomes clear to the reader that Heathcliff yet plans revenge for being rejected by the Lintons and cast out after his beloved Catherine's death.