The house at Richmond is finished at last, but Soames takes Bosinney to court for exceeding the budget. The final judgment of their case turns on 'a very fine point' in their correspondence.
The architect does not heed Young Jolyon's warning and continues to pursue Irene - with fatal consequences.
Old Jolyon effects a complete reconciliation with his son and changes his will as a result, further distancing himself from his brother James in the process. The rift will continue through into the next generation.
The old man purchases Robin Hill and spends the remaining days of his life in the company of Irene, now teaching music and 'assisting the Magdelenes of London'. This charming interlude brings Galsworthy's Book 1 of the Saga to a close.
