After Mr. Hyde disappears, Dr. Jekyll seems happier and more social. He reconnects with his friends and enjoys their company again. For two months, everything appears normal, and Dr. Jekyll is at peace.
One day, Mr. Utterson tries to visit Dr. Jekyll but is told that he is not seeing anyone. Surprised and worried, Mr. Utterson visits their mutual friend, Dr. Lanyon. He is shocked to see that Dr. Lanyon looks very ill and distressed.
When Mr. Utterson asks about Dr. Jekyll, Dr. Lanyon becomes upset and says he never wants to see or talk about him again. Confused, Mr. Utterson writes to Dr. Jekyll, asking why he is isolating himself and what happened between him and Dr. Lanyon.
Dr. Jekyll replies in a mysterious letter. He says that he must live in seclusion and cannot explain why. He asks Mr. Utterson to respect his privacy and not to ask more questions.
Shortly after, Dr. Lanyon dies. Before his death, he gives Mr. Utterson a letter to be opened only after Dr. Jekyll’s death or disappearance. Mr. Utterson, honoring his friend’s wishes, locks the letter away without reading it. He grows more concerned about Dr. Jekyll but is unable to see him. Dr. Jekyll remains hidden, and Mr. Utterson fears for his friend’s well-being.