The Counsellor appears to speak to Lorna, but she will not meet with him until John returns. At John’s return, the Counsellor declares himself her guardian and says that he is willing to be generous and allow her to marry beneath her social status, expecting John to agree to join the Doones. When his mother explains that his moral values will not allow for that, the Counsellor says that nothing can be done about it. He then hints at a mysterious obstacle to their marriage.

When Lorna demands to know what it is, he tells them that their fathers had killed one another. John says that he does not believe him, but even if he did, Sir Ensor had already given his approval. Lorna agrees, saying that she does not believe the Counsellor, knowing his character as she does, but even if it were true, she would still marry John if he would have her. When Lorna faints, Mrs. Ridd uncharacteristically turns on the Counsellor, berating him for his mischief. On the way down the stairs, John offers the Counsellor wine. They drink and smoke together, and the Counsellor says he has “come around” due to John’s simple hospitality.