Summary

The scene opens with Babe in Manhattan. She has recently found out that she has cancer, and the news has changed her dramatically. She is more “uncensored,” giving herself a voice (91). No longer eager to please, Babe has no fear in voicing her feelings, especially when it comes to her hatred for her husband. After the Esquire piece and Babe’s realization about her husband’s wrongdoings, she becomes disgusted with Bill, vowing not even to refer to him by his first name. The rest of the Swans visit Babe, and Slim, along with Bill, tell Babe never to speak to Truman again.

Six months after, the group is at Quo Vadis in Manhattan. Everyone has made a pact not to speak to Truman, but they follow this to varying degrees. Lee still sees Truman, C.Z. stands by him and Gloria sees...