Chapter 7 Summary

Five days later, Tabidgi Jack Smolders arrives with Jimmie's initiation tooth. With him are Mort and a cousin, Peter, who is still a boy. When they see Jimmie, Tabidgi chants and Mort dances. Jimmie tells them that he doesn't have any booze. Tabidgi takes the initiation tooth out and gives it to Jimmie to keep him safe.

Since giving birth, Gilda has been sickly. She fears and hates Tabidgi Jackie Smolders. Jimmie tries to get them to leave and every morning he hopes for their departure. But he can't expel them because he feels unequal over his white marriage and son that isn't his. He works automatically.

One Friday morning, Gilda goes to turn in her weekly order. Mr. Newby tells her that he told Jimmie that he wouldn't give him any more advances on the groceries since Jimmie has turned the place...