Victor has developed a passion for science by reading outdated books, while Henry longs to go into business. Eventually, Victor's parents decide it is time for him to go away to school, and they are to send him to the university in Ingolstadt. Before he can leave his mother passes away. On her deathbed she tells Victor and Elizabeth of her wish to see them together and basically marries them then and there. Victor leaves, sad to part from his loved ones.
Life goes on at home.
Because Alphonse and Caroline are so generous, Elizabeth learns to be gracious as well. When she is old enough to know her mind, she extends housing and love to a young girl named Justine, whose mother dislikes her and wants to be rid of her. Justine is a servant, but more like a sister to Elizabeth, Ernest and William. Meanwhile, at school Victor's passion for science increases exponentially. He falls into the hands of Waldman, a chemistry professor, who excites in him ambition and the desire to achieve glory in natural philosophy.