Book I: Two Men
The woman both men are in love with; her character is central to the conflict.
I: A Wanderer
The woman at the cathedral, whose despair and bitterness are introduced.
III: A Mysterious Summons
The young girl who writes the letter and meets Mandeville, showing her innocence and remorse.
IV: Searchings
The young woman whose identity the narrator seeks; she is implied to be Miss Preston, the banker's daughter.
The Rubicon
Meets Mandeville at a party. She is agitated but appreciates his discretion. She tells him they can never be friends, hinting that his profession is the reason.
IX: Paula
Now a young woman of extraordinary beauty and a poetic, dreamy nature. She remembers her first meeting with Mr. Sylvester and is inspired by his presence, revealing her love of knowledge and imagination.
X: The Barred Door
Innocent and curious about the barred house and the story of Jacqueline Japha. She shares her thoughts on nature and the city, and bids Mr. Sylvester farewell with affection.
XI: Miss Stuyvesant
Discussed as a potential addition to the Sylvester household, with Mrs. Sylvester hoping she can assist with personal tasks.
XII: Miss Belinda Makes Conditions
Radiant and joyful at the prospect of going to the city with Mr. Sylvester, whom she idolizes. She expresses strong moral convictions.
XIII: The End of My Lady's Picture
Arrives from Grotewell, dazzled by the luxurious surroundings; shows a natural grace and deep emotional response to music.
Life and Death
Mentioned in the context of the summons and the unfolding events.
Miss Belinda Has a Question to Decide
Though absent, her letters form the core of the chapter, revealing her experiences, friendships, and observations of the Sylvester household over the past year.
XV: An Adventure—Or Something More
Experiences a reawakening of joy during the ride, shows compassion for the injured child, and displays courage when confronting the sinister woman.
XVI: The Sword of Damocles
Deeply affected by the day's events, she shares her disturbing encounter with a malicious woman and reflects on the theme of hidden sins.
XVII: Grave and Gay
Converses with Mr. Ensign, showing her love for the country and her admiration for Mr. Sylvester.
XVIII: In the Night Watches
Stays awake in the moonlight, anxious about Mr. Sylvester's absence and his strange movements.
The Dregs in the Cup
Anxious about Mr. Sylvester's state, hints at a hidden trouble, and recalls a disturbing scene from the previous night.
XXI: Departure
Preparing to leave, she is overwhelmed by grief and anxiety, but finds solace in Mr. Sylvester's final blessing and his invitation to return.
Book III: The Japha Mystery
Present in the narrative, observing the unfolding events and the dynamics within the Japha household.
XXIII: The Poem
Reads her poem 'The Defence of the Bride' at a village entertainment; later agrees to visit Margery Hamlin.
The Japha Mansion
Driven by curiosity and sympathy, she visits Mrs. Hamlin and is mistaken for Jacqueline, deepening her involvement in the mystery.
XXV: Jacqueline
The listener to the narrative, urged to rest her head on the narrator's knee as the story unfolds.
XXVII: The Lone Watcher
Offers to take over the watch, showing her compassion and determination.
XXVIII: Sunshine on the Hills
Feels restless and imprisoned by her village life; encounters Clarence Ensign and reveals her yearning for the city.
XXIX: Mist in the Valley
Paula is conflicted about Mr. Ensign's courtship and decides to return to Mr. Sylvester, feeling the need to test her own heart.
Book IV: From A. To Z.
Central figure torn between love and family duty, faces a life-changing choice.
XXX: Miss Belinda Presents Mr. Sylvester with a Christmas Gift
Returns to Mr. Sylvester's house, feels at home, and agrees to pray for him.
A Question
Feels unsettled and shy about Ensign's gift; responds to Sylvester's metaphorical question with a romantic ideal of love.
Full Tide
Drawn into society, surrounded by Mr. Ensign's attentions, unaware of Mr. Sylvester's inner turmoil.
XXXIII: Two Letters
Struggles with her feelings for Mr. Sylvester and Mr. Ensign, ultimately deciding to confront Mr. Sylvester about his past.
XXXIV: Paula Makes Her Choice
Struggles with her choice, asks Mr. Sylvester for advice, burns Mr. Ensign's letter, showing her commitment.
Morning
Radiant and peaceful, having resolved her feelings for Mr. Sylvester, but becomes troubled upon finding his note and key.
Blue-Beard's Chamber
Heavy-hearted and anxious, she awaits Mr. Sylvester. She reveals to Ensign that she has chosen a different path and later ventures into Sylvester's private room, where she finds a letter for her.
XXXIX: From A. To Z.
The recipient of Sylvester's confession, his source of consolation.
Half-Past Seven
Determined to go to Mr. Sylvester, driven by love and fear for his safety, insists on accompanying Bertram.
Woman's Love
Central figure in the exploration of woman's love, facing choices and sacrifices.
XLII: Paula Relates a Story She Has Heard
Shows compassion and insight, using a story to comfort Jacqueline and honor Mrs. Hamlin.
XLIII: Determination
Shows unwavering loyalty and love, insists on sharing Sylvester's burden.
In Mr. Stuyvesant’s Parlors
Supports Cicely and Bertram, and whispers to Mr. Stuyvesant to bring Bertram in.
The Hour of Six Is Sacred
Keeps her promise to Mrs. Hamlin by holding vigil at the Japha mansion, finds Jacqueline, and facilitates her final reconciliation.
The Man Cummins
Marries Mr. Sylvester and later gives him a note from Jacqueline Japha that frees him from his past obligation.
