The Invention of Morel

The narrator prefaces his next accounts by saying the events that occurred are unbelievable, and his situation is different than he thought. After the swimmers leave the polluted pool, he overhears Morel telling a young man to stay a few minutes after everyone leaves that evening. He warns that the young man shouldn’t inform the others, especially the women, as they might panic. A few moments later, Morel speaks to a stout older man and tells him that he’s recording all of his actions and words, which doesn’t bother the older man. The narrator thinks they’re talking about him and how he’s keeping a diary. Afterward, the men and some servants put out chairs for people to sit outside. Faustine, however, walks down to the rocks, so the narrator follows.

The narrator feels that this is his last chance with Faustine, so he debates his course of action. At first, he thinks he will tell her about his love for her, but he fears she will be suspicious of his motives. Then he considers watching the sunset with her, commenting about the suns, and making conversation about the island. However, Faustine leaves after the weaker of the suns sets.