Summary

In Chapter 17, Joan called a meeting of the Gillespie family the day of the woolshed party. She challenged the family to get in front of the gossip by making light of their situation. She suggested they make speeches in which they would specifically mention the letter and their inclusion in it. Nearly three hundred people showed up for the party. Angela began the family’s speeches by telling the guests the Christmas letter was already out of date and her family would give updates. All the family members spoke. Angela was surprised when even Nick stood up beside her. He apologized for accepting the mining lease, telling those gathered that he knew what it might mean for the land. Several men in the crowd spoke up that they understood. The crowd applauded when he thanked them for coming. It was nearly 9 p.m...