To prevent Heathcliff from enforcing his demand in person, Edgar Linton sends Nelly to take young Linton to Wuthering Heights early in the morning. Edgar orders Nelly not to tell Cathy where Linton has gone, because Cathy can no longer associate with him and would only become anxious to visit the Heights.

Linton is frightened and confused when Nelly wakes him and says he must go to his father. Linton has never been told about Heathcliff, prefers to stay with his uncle Edgar, and resists leaving until Edgar helps coax him from bed. During the ride, Nelly soothes Linton with false assurances that his absence will be short and that Edgar and Cathy will visit him.

As they approach Wuthering Heights, Linton asks about the house, Hareton, and Heathcliff. Nelly presents the place as healthy and respectable, though Linton privately dislikes its gloomy exterior. Inside, Heathcliff, Joseph, and Hareton inspect Linton with curiosity and contempt.

Heathcliff greets Linton not with affection but as property, mocking his weakness and resemblance to Isabella. Linton clings to Nelly and weeps until Heathcliff drags him forward, declares himself Linton's father, and insults Isabella for keeping the boy ignorant of him.

After sending Hareton away, Heathcliff privately tells Nelly his real motive: Linton is useful because he may become owner of Thrushcross Grange, allowing Heathcliff to extend his revenge through inheritance. Heathcliff despises Linton personally but intends to preserve him, educate him, and keep him superior to Hareton and the household because Linton serves that purpose.

Joseph shares Heathcliff's contempt when Linton refuses milk-porridge, but Heathcliff orders more suitable food because Linton's fragile health must be protected. Nelly leaves, somewhat reassured that Heathcliff's selfish plans may ensure decent care, but Linton cries desperately for Nelly not to abandon him. The door is shut against him, and Nelly rides back, ending her brief guardianship.