Summary

Chapter 3: Miss Merle (Myrtle Bouchard), the narrator of Chapter 3, arrives at the Marshall House with an apple pie for the Major. After Janey informs her of Beau’s murder, Merle heads down to Mathu’s house where she encounters Johnny Paul, Rufe, and Mathu with their shotguns. Everyone at the scene, including Candy, professes to be Beau’s murderer. Merle dismisses any belief that Candy is involved, and when she is told of the plan to stifle the impending investigation by Sheriff Mapes, Merle sympathizes with Candy’s determination to protect Mathu and agrees to help her cause.

Upon Merle’s return to the main house, Bea orders Janey to serve them drinks. Merle initially refuses but is countered by Bea’s assertion of dominance over the Marshall House. Bea applauds her niece Candy’s efforts and condemns the Cajuns. When Merle reveals Candy’s...