Who is Laura McAllan? Why does she marry so late in life? How does Laura feel about this late marriage? Does Laura love her husband on their wedding day? How many children do they have? Why does Laura want to have a third child? What warning does Laura's mother give her when she learns that she is expecting a third child? What does this seem to foreshadow for Laura? Does this take place? What is the impact of this?

Who is Florence Jackson? How does she come to know the McAllans? How does she feel about the McAllans? For what reason? Is there tension between Florence and Laura McAllan from their first meeting? For what reason? How does Laura treat the Jacksons? Is Florence's attitude toward the McAllans a reflection of this treatment? In what way?

Who is Jamie McAllan? What is special about...