Chapters 17 & 18 Summary

Chapter 17

With the outbreak of war, Herman wants to join the military. He could get out of service because of being a farmer. Betty worries about Herman and wishes he would not join. Betty hears from someone else that Herman has decided to join the navy, and she is angry. She tries to write a letter to Herman but has difficulty. Lottie steps in and completes the letter.

Betty delivers the letter to Herman and receives a prompt reply. He has indeed joined he navy. Betty asks Lottie what to do, and Lottie advises marrying Herman before he departs and continuing to live with her and Polly while Herman is away.

Chapter 18

Betty works quickly to make a wedding dress. Herman's mother hosts a wedding shower and all of the women bring gifts. A quilt from Sade and gifts from Trudy's children bring...