Summary

The perspective shifts to Clem Barefield, sheriff of Madison County for 25 years. He explains that he had a choice between sheriff and apple farmer, and chose sheriff. His predecessor, told him that he would get bored but he explains to the reader that in Madison County, it is impossible to be bored. He's at home with his wife Sheila when he receives a call from his deputy, Rob, alerting him that Stump has been killed at the Church of Signs Following, and his body has been moved to Adelaide Lyle's house. Clem straps on his holster and begins to drive. During this drive he recounts the story of how he once let Ben stay in his house because Ben was afraid on his own father. He gives the reader the background of Ben and Jimmy Hall, Ben's pent up anger and...