The Mill on the Floss

Philip visits the mill with his father to check in with the business. Maggie is happy to see Philip; she remembers him fondly and has thought of him often throughout the years. She recalls his intelligence and kindness, but worries that after his time studying abroad, he’ll be a different person. She takes her daily walk around the property and runs into Philip. He admits that he’s thought of her over the years too and shows her a picture he drew of her on the day she left for boarding school, when she told him she would always remember him.

Philip tells her he’s not happy. Maggie explains that she’s been happy ever since she decided to focus on what’s truly important to her in life. Philip can’t help but think of everything he wants and doesn’t have. He asks if he can visit her once or twice a month. Philip notices with disappointment that she doesn’t realize he’s making a romantic overture to her. Because of the enmity between their families, they must keep the rekindling of their friendship a secret. Privately, Philip is determined to get Maggie to fall in love with him.