The Secret Book of Flora Lea

Hazel’s boss, Edwin, calls her to ask if she knows anything about the stolen property. She explains that she left the book out before she left, and Edwin hints that Poppy is under suspicion. Hazel worries about what action to take and decides she can’t let someone else be blamed for her mistake.

Hazel and Flora ride with Harry to Bridie’s house in the countryside town of Binsey. Bridie welcomes them to her home, which is idyllic and charming. When Bridie accidentally refers to it as the girls’ home, Flora becomes offended and scared. Bridie apologizes and everyone settles in. The girls are enchanted by the house, but Hazel feels guilty for her happiness when her mother is in London. While they wait for dinner, Hazel and Flora read a note their mother left for them; it tells them to watch out for each other. Flora solemnly promises to watch out for Hazel.

Hazel brings the Whisperwood book back to the bookshop and confesses to her crime. Edwin and Tim are sympathetic to her story, though the policeman is not. The bookstore refuses to charge Hazel, but the policeman keeps a record of her confession.