In Saint Denis, France Jack learns of Euclidean geometry which provides him with the key to building a stone structure that can withstand its own weight. Aliena and the baby have been searching for him and find him there. They decide to return to Kingsbridge but while waiting for transport in Cherbourg he discovers his father's family and learns that his father was on the White Ship that burned and killed Prince William, the heir to Henry I's throne and King Stephen's predecessor. In Kingsbridge, Philip is no longer Prior but receives a surprising offer from Bishop Waleran to be his Archdeacon and be in charge of the area while Waleran goes off to Rome. Jack and Aliena are warmly received by everyone except Alfred who, not surprisingly, still bears a grudge. Jack proposes to re-start the work on the cathedral and brings with him a weeping statue of the Madonna and Child. Waleran and the Hamleighs continue to plot against Kingsbridge but this time the residents prepare for an attack.
—garykmcd