When Macon left for a trip to San Francisco a few days ago, Baltimore was covered in ice, but now on his return it is like the beginning of spring. Macon arrives home, puts a few things in order, and decides to take Edward out for a walk. Before long he hears the shrill sound of children teasing and he realizes that their target is Alexander. Macon lets Edward go to his defense and when Macon reaches him, Alexander is visibly relieved and takes Macon's hand for the walk home.
The next day Julian stops by with information for the next book, but Macon suspects that he just wants to get a look at his new life. All in all, he approves of Muriel and invites her and Alexander to his wedding to Rose......
