The narrative is now presented through journal entries written by Ezra Jennings. On June 15, 1849, Jennings writes to Rachel to explain that he thinks Franklin was under the influence of opium when he took the diamond, and asks if he can use the Verinder house for the simulation. On June 16, 1849, Jennings and Franklin discuss their plans for the experiment; Betteredge thinks the idea is ridiculous. On June 17, Jennings hears from Rachel: She thinks the experiment is an excellent way to clear Franklin’s name, and wants to be present for it. Jennings tells her that she can come, but that Franklin Blake must not know that she is in the house—otherwise, it could compromise the results of the experiment.

On June 18, Jennings begins preparations for the experiment. He directs Betteredge to have the house set up exactly as it was a year before. On June 19, Rachel writes, agreeing to come to the house in secret. Her aunt, and current guardian, also writes, expressing her annoyance that she has to accompany Rachel to Yorkshire. Meanwhile, Franklin has stopped consuming tobacco and is sleeping very poorly, just as he was at the birthday party a year prior.